A RETIRED teacher has scooped a £10k windfall after winning the top prize in a competition.

Susan Singleton, of Otley, won Spar’s latest text-to-win giveaway, Quids In.

Awarded at the end of a 12 week campaign that saw almost 40,000 entries from across the north of England, Susan, 69, was absolutely thrilled to have been randomly selected as the overall winner.

She picked up her winning £10,000 cheque from Spar in Guiseley.

“I couldn’t believe it at first and thought it must be a hoax,” said Susan. “Finding out I had won £10,000 was such a wonderful surprise and the money really couldn’t have come at a better time.

“Everyone has had such a difficult year and our four children have all been affected by the pandemic and placed on furlough. I feel very lucky to be able to give them a share of the winnings and help get them back on their feet, and then as we can’t go on holiday yet, I’m planning to use the rest to re-pave our patio and get the garden ready for summer.”

“It really has been a huge surprise and such a lovely one, just in time for my 70th birthday!”

Spar Guiseley is owned by independent Spar retailer and Leeds based family business, Valli Forecourt Ltd, who were absolutely thrilled that a local resident had claimed the top prize.

A spokesperson for the company said: “After a successful Quids In campaign, we are delighted that one of our lovely customers has won a massive £10,000 at one of our stores.

“We wish Susan every happiness and hope that she enjoys this fantastic win.”

Peter Dodding, sales and marketing director at James Hall & Co., Spar wholesaler for the north of England, said “Quids In has been an exciting campaign, designed to offer customers a helping hand and spread a little positivity during the current climate.

“Look out for Spar’s summer text-to-win campaign, which will offer more prizes and in-store discounts for Spar customers to enjoy.”