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Media centre /
Press releaseERNIE SPLASHES OUT IN CUMBRIA01 March 2004
One lucky resident from Cumbria is £1 million richer today after ERNIE, the Premium Bond number generator, sailed his way through billions of Premium Bond numbers before sending this month's jackpot winning number across the finishing line. The winner - whose identity is being kept a closely guarded secret - was told last night in person by Agent Million, the mystery person who pays a personal visit to the winner to give them the good news. This is Cumbria's first £1 million Premium Bond jackpot winner since the top prize was introduced in 1994, and March's winner becomes the 120th Premium Bond millionaire overall. This month's winning jackpot number was purchased in May 2003. The prize fund rate is currently 2.40% per annum tax free, equivalent to 3.00 % p.a. gross for a basic rate tax payer and 4.00% p.a. gross for a higher rate tax payer. The popularity of Premium Bonds has grown dramatically over the past five years as the amount invested has doubled to £23 billion. Like all National Savings and Investments (NS&I) products, Premium Bonds offer investors 100% security, backed by HM Treasury, as well as the sense of fun that comes from winning tax free prizes. The number and value of prizes awarded in March 2004 are:
Since the first draw in 1957, ERNIE has given away over 108 million prizes worth £6.9 billion. Prizes range from £50 to £1million. There is currently £23 million in unclaimed prizes. There is no time limit on claiming prizes. Premium Bond investors can check to see if they have won by logging on to www.nsandi.com and using the Premium Bond prize checker. ENDS Notes to Editors 1. The lucky jackpot winner becomes ERNIE's 120th Premium Bond millionaire. 2. March's jackpot winner holds a total of £30,000 Premium Bonds. 3. Pictures of ERNIE are available from the NS&I Media Team. 4. Further information on National Savings and Investments (NS&I), including press releases and product information, is available on the website at www.nsandi.com. You can also contact the NS&I Media Team. 5. NS&I has a number of spokespeople available for interviews and our experienced radio team is available via our ISDN line: 020 7602 4522.
Media team The numbers below are for media use only. Customers wishing to contact NS&I can find details here.
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