'This doesn't happen to people like us ... this is gonna change our lives'

SIX neighbours have won a “surreal” £1m between them, with plans for the “life-changing” cash including a Seychelles jaunt and a cruise down the Nile.

- By SUE KIRBY

The householders - in Maple Avenue, Thornaby - saw their postcode TS17 8NG scoop the People's Postcode Lottery's Millionaire Street top prize.

Five of the householders with one ticket won a £142,857 share, and one of the winners had two tickets and scooped £285,714.

Among the winners was Debbie Gittins, who had only recently rejoined People's Postcode Lottery.

The council worker said: “It’s surreal. This doesn’t happen to people like us. We go to work every day, we get by, but this is gonna change our lives.

“It takes the pressure off real life, the daily grind, this will lighten that load and make life sweeter.”

Husband Gary, who works for the local council Tarmacking highways, added: “We're both back to work tomorrow, but with a big smile on our faces.”

The windfall tops off an incredible nine months for Debbie and her husband Gary Gittins, which saw the arrival of their first grandchild and both celebrating turning 50.

Now the couple are looking to buy a new house, and they'll also take a special holiday to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary next year.