Castle Bingo Winner

MORE than 50 years of playing bingo has finally paid off for a Merthyr Tydfil great grandad who has scooped a £90,000 top prize.

The lucky winner, aged 76, who does not want to be named, won the fortune at the Castle Club, Plymouth Street, Merthyr on December 22, where he has been a member since 2003.

He completed a full house quicker than anyone else taking part in the National Bingo Game, which includes 470 clubs across the UK.

The man, who is married, was playing with his sister-in-law when his numbers came up and with two children, seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren he could have an extra Christmas wish list.

"I couldn't believe it when they told me how much it was," he said.

"The reaction in the club was marvellous with everyone clapping and cheering me.

"I just couldn't stop shaking and I still shake when I think about it now."

He isn't sure yet what he will be doing with the money but he will definitely be taking his wife on a long holiday.