An 87-year-old woman was one of four lucky winners of the Postcode Lottery in Amersham, each picking up a cheque for £30,000.

The neighbours from Salisbury Close picked up the prize after the postcode was announced on July 31.

87-year-old Jean Balchin has been suffering from ill health for the previous three years and described winning the money as a ‘fantastic morale boost.’

Jean said: “I’ve never seen this amount of money before – I’m ecstatic! I had a hip operation that went wrong a few years ago, then in April I had to have my foot completely rebuilt. I was beginning to think nothing could go right so this is a wonderful surprise.

“My bathroom badly needs attention as my shower doesn’t work and the toilet is almost giving up too. I would never have been able to afford a new bathroom otherwise, so this couldn’t have come at a better time.”

“Sarah [her daughter] has been incredible at taking care of me after I had my two big operations, so it would be nice to treat her for a change and pay for her, her husband and my granddaughter to go on holiday.

“She really does deserve it. Early next year, once I’m a bit better, I’d also love to go on a cruise, so that’s something to look forward to.”

The second winner, Victoria Martin. said: “I can’t believe this is real. I’ve only been playing for two months so I feel incredibly lucky right now. This means I’ll be able to take my daughter on the trip of a lifetime to Disney.”

Sean Garvey added: “I’ve been playing for just three months and I’ve paid in £30 so far. To get a cheque today for £30,000 is really quite marvellous.”

The last of the winners was not there to collect a cheque in person.

People’s Postcode Lottery ambassador Danyl Johnson delivered the cheques and said: “A massive congratulations goes to Jean, Victoria and Sean.

“It was a pleasure to meet them and hear how much of a difference this money will have on their lives. I’m sure there will be a few celebrations on Salisbury Close today.”