THE new Grosvenor Casino, in Southend, handed over a £5,000 prize to a lucky winner, who promptly shared his winnings with his mates.

Chris Wright, an IT consultant, from Southend, was quids in after a night out at the casino, at the Park Inn Palace Hotel.

Mr Wright, 24, struck it lucky after entering a free prize draw.

Customers were invited to enter to be in with a chance of winning one of two iPads or a £5,000 cash prize by picking up a wristband with a unique code.

After finding out he’d won, generous Mr Wright decided to share the prize money with his friends who had joined him for a night at the casino.

He said: “I did give £2,000 out to my friends I was with that night as it was a once-in-alifetime moment and I wanted everyone to enjoy it. I plan on spending £1,500 on a holiday with my girlfriend next summer and I'm still considering the rest.

“My first purchase for myself will probably be new football boots and I'm treating my family to dinner this week.

“I have a massive memory of a brilliant night. Big thanks to Grosvenor Casino and all their staff!”