Northumbria Police made a startling discovery when responding to a report of “suspicious activity” at the old Orion Bingo Hall located on Stamfordham Road in Westerhope. Officers arrived at the scene on Tuesday afternoon to find what appeared to be a clandestine cannabis farm containing approximately 150 plants.
Immediate Dismantling of Suspected Cannabis Farm
Upon uncovering the suspected cannabis operation, law enforcement wasted no time and promptly dismantled it. The incident has sparked an active investigation into the matter, with police officers remaining in the area to conduct further inquiries.
Appeal for Information
A spokesperson from Northumbria Police urged anyone with information related to this case to come forward and assist in their ongoing investigation. Individuals can provide information via the ‘Tell us Something’ page on the police website, quoting log NP-20230918-0401.
On September 1st, Granite State Bingo opened the doors of its brand-new bingo hall at the Lilac Mall, situated at 5 Milton Road in Rochester. This exciting move marks a significant transition for the organization and its dedicated charity operators.
From Dover to Rochester: A History of Charitable Impact
For the past seven years, Granite State Bingo, led by organizer Susan Monaghan, had been serving the bingo-playing community in Dover. Over this time, they catered to a staggering 30,000 players annually and played a pivotal role in supporting local nonprofits. Since 2016, this bingo hall has contributed nearly $900,000 annually to these vital organizations.
Susan Monaghan expressed her enthusiasm about the move, saying, “We look forward to fostering a strong partnership between the residents of Rochester and the nonprofits we serve as we open the doors on this new, larger bingo hall. For many of the nonprofits I work with, charitable bingo revenue is the lifeblood of their organizations and the services they provide. If we couldn’t find a new home, those services would be in jeopardy.”
Supporting Local Causes: A Commitment to Charity
Granite State Bingo is committed to supporting the community by partnering with seven charity organizations, each representing a day of the week. These partners include Dover Youth Hockey, Triangle Club, Dover Loyal Order of the Moose, Saint Ignatius Parish, Dover Rotary Club, My Friend’s Place, and Victims Inc. In the future, Granite State Bingo plans to expand its charitable reach by inviting one or two additional nonprofit operators through a Saturday matinee event in the coming months.
After over 20 years as the manager of Premier Bingo on High Street, Cowdenbeath, Thomas Wilson is poised to reopen the bingo hall following its sudden closure due to the company’s administration. Wilson, determined to breathe new life into the venue, has secured the lease and has even initiated an online fundraiser, garnering substantial support from the community.
Community Support and Detailed Plans in the Works
Thomas Wilson, who managed the bingo hall for a quarter of a century, expressed his commitment to his loyal customers. Through social media, he revealed his intention to revive the beloved establishment and has already received generous contributions through the fundraiser. Wilson plans to share more comprehensive plans with the Cowdenbeath Bingo Club community on Facebook in the near future.
“I used to be the manager for the last 25 years, and I am using all my resources to do this for the customers,” he explained. “The bingo is much more than a gambling establishment; it is a family. Me and all the staff have all been here long-term. Some of the girls have been there 20 to 30 years. We know everybody, and that is who I am doing it for. I am doing it for the customers and the fantastic team of staff I had.”
Legalities and a Bright Future
While the reopening of the bingo hall is imminent, there are legalities to address before the grand reopening. In the interim, club bingo may be on offer until the necessary licenses are obtained. Wilson assured the community that the bingo hall would be back in action, though not necessarily on a daily basis, until all regulatory requirements are met.
The closure of the Cowdenbeath bingo hall in August coincided with the shutdown of Premier Bingo establishments in Alloa and Perth.
Is there anything more exhilarating than witnessing a dedicated bingo enthusiast striking gold with a life-altering jackpot win? The Mecca Bingo Hamilton establishment has once again become the backdrop for a heartwarming story of luck and joy, marking the second National Bingo Game Jackpot Win this year.
Celebrating Success at Mecca Bingo Hamilton
This recent triumph has left the entire community buzzing with excitement. The fortunate winner, opting to maintain their anonymity, has graced the halls of Mecca Bingo Hamilton since its inception back in 1996. After an astonishing 26 years of unwavering commitment, this beloved club member now faces the delightful challenge of deciding how to make the most of their substantial £50,000 windfall.
An Absolutely Electrifying Atmosphere
James Watson, the ever-grinning general manager of Mecca Bingo Hamilton, couldn’t hide his enthusiasm regarding this grand victory. He exclaimed, “The £50,000 National Bingo Game jackpot win is a genuine cause for celebration, and the atmosphere within the club on that Friday night was nothing short of electric.”
He continued, “The uncertainty of when and where these substantial prizes will land always keeps us on our toes, and we’re overjoyed that it has once again found its way into the hands of a loyal Mecca Hamilton player. As a familiar face within our community, they are cherished by our entire team, and we couldn’t be happier for them.”
This year has proven, once more, that fortune favors the steadfast, as another cherished long-time regular at Mecca Bingo Hamilton had previously clinched the coveted £50,000 jackpot prize. It serves as a heartwarming reminder that persistence and dedication can indeed lead to life-changing rewards.
Imagine the elation of winning £500 while playing bingo. It’s a modest sum but one that can bring joy, fun, or a sense of security. Now picture that very victory turning into a tale of loss and theft all in one night.
A Twist of Fate: Stolen Winnings and a Startling Encounter
This unexpected turn of events unfolded in Dundee, Scotland, where a local resident—whose identity remains hidden—experienced a rollercoaster of emotions. Having withdrawn £250 from an ATM and spent the evening at her favorite bingo establishment, Buzz Bingo on Harefield Road’s Stack Retail Park, she struck gold by winning a £500 prize. With an impressive £750 in cash, including her initial withdrawal, she became an unwitting target.
As the clock struck 3am, a man named John Lawrie entered the scene. Under the cover of night, Lawrie infiltrated the woman’s home through a bathroom window while she slept beside her husband. He made his way to their bedroom, where a handbag containing the cash awaited. The woman woke to the shocking reality of a stranger in her sanctuary. Though Lawrie managed to escape unnoticed, he left behind a crucial piece of evidence.
DNA Clues Unravel the Bingo Burglary
Lawrie’s misdeed led to the discovery of his DNA on the broken window—a pivotal clue that tied him to the crime. With a prior criminal record, his identity was swiftly established by the police. The investigation concluded with Lawrie’s arrest, and during his trial, he admitted his culpability. John Caird, his solicitor, noted, “Mr Lawrie is quite frankly disgusted with himself.” Caird further explained Lawrie’s battle with substance abuse during the time of the incident.
Lawrie’s conviction for burglary resulted in his remand at HMP Perth until the impending sentencing, scheduled for the end of September. The motivations behind Lawrie’s actions remain shrouded in mystery. Whether he had inside information, overheard conversations, or merely chanced upon the situation, the truth may never be fully unveiled.
While the tale underscores the dark side of a momentary triumph, it also highlights the resilience of justice and the pursuit of truth. In the end, the pursuit of a fleeting fortune led one individual down a treacherous path, reminding us of the thin line between success and misfortune.
Roll out the red carpet for a night like no other as Bongo’s Bingo brings you an unforgettable cinematic experience.
Event Details
Date: Thursday August 17th, 2023
Location: Stanhope St, Liverpool L8 5RE
Start Time: 6:00pm | Last Entry: 7:30pm
First Game of Bingo: 8:00pm
A Night at the Movies
Get ready to step into the silver screen and become your favorite movie characters! Whether you’re channeling Shrek, James Bond, Ghostbusters, or even Mary f*cking Poppins, this is your chance to shine.
Experience an evening filled with thrilling bingo games, epic dance-offs, crowd karaoke, and non-stop dancing to the most iconic movie soundtracks of all time.
But remember, for everyone’s safety and enjoyment, please refrain from wearing face-covering attire, large/fake weapons accessories, or oversized costumes. Such items will not be allowed entry.
Join us for:
Bingo with a twist
Electrifying rave atmosphere
Cheesy singalongs that will make your night
Dance-offs that’ll keep you moving
Unbelievable prizes and cash rewards
Our fantastic bingo hosts will ensure you have the ultimate Bongo’s Bingo experience!
Keep in mind that all events will adhere to government COVID-19 guidelines and any additional rules set by the venue. Please contact the venue for more details.
COVID-19 Note:
If your event is postponed and you booked via the Bongo’s Bingo website or app, you’ll receive credit of the same value on your Bongo’s Bingo account within 30 days of the postponement. This credit will grant you advanced access to upcoming Bongo’s Bingo events across the UK, with a window of 24 months from the restart of indoor shows.
August 2023 brings the much-awaited Tour of America contest to Bingo Billy, delighting players with its beloved tradition. Embark on an exhilarating journey across the United States, making unforgettable stops in iconic cities like New York, Atlantic City, Kansas City, Hollywood, Vegas, and Miami. Each destination offers special activities and incredible prizes to make your tour truly remarkable.
Win Big with Billy Miles and Daily Facebook Live Shows!
From August 17th to August 31st, you have the chance to win Billy Miles, which can be redeemed for an amazing $1,000 in cash prizes. But that’s not all; stay connected with Bingo Billy’s famous Facebook group page and tune into their exciting Facebook Live shows daily to collect entries and get your deposits back credited as cash. The fun never stops with the array of events, including slot tournaments, the Bitcoin Club, FREE Spins, Team Bingo, and more, awaiting you every day throughout August.
Get Ready for the Thrilling Adventure of a Lifetime!
Are you prepared for the most exciting event of the summer? Pack your bags, grab your lucky charms, and get ready for a thrilling tour of America with Bingo Billy! Explore the vibrant streets of New York, try your luck in Atlantic City, immerse yourself in the heartland of America in Kansas City, indulge in the glitz of Hollywood, experience the electrifying atmosphere of Las Vegas, and relax on the tropical beaches of Miami.
This is an adventure you won’t want to miss – filled with laughter, excitement, and incredible prizes. Bingo Billy is all set to create an unforgettable experience for you throughout August. Join the Tour of America contest and make this summer truly exceptional!
Bingo, a game loved by people from all walks of life, has captured the hearts of celebrities as well. From hosting lavish bingo parties to representing online gaming sites, many famous personalities have shown their loyalty and addiction to this classic game.
The Avid Celebrities Who Top the Bingo Chart
Catherine Zeta-Jones, Kate Moss, Bono, Russell Crowe, Courtney Cox, Mick Jagger, Robbie Williams, Sharon Osbourne, and Denise Von Outen are among the notable celebrities who proudly confess their love for bingo. These stars take their passion for the game to another level, setting themselves apart from countless others who are also fond of bingo.
Unveiling the Bingo Secrets of Famous Personalities
From Catherine Zeta-Jones’s personalized bingo balls to Kate Moss’s Saturday night bingo sessions with her kids, the celebrity world is buzzing with bingo enthusiasts. Bono’s involvement with a Dublin pub-turned-bingo hall, Russell Crowe’s early days as a bingo caller, and Courtney Cox’s bingo bonding with friends add more charm to the list.
Not to be outdone, Mick Jagger hosts bingo nights at his palatial residence, while Robbie Williams passionately participates in charity bingo games. Sharon Osbourne is an expert on the game, even having her own online bingo site. Denise Van Outen can often be spotted visiting bingo clubs, sharing the joy with fellow fans.
With the rise of online bingo, celebrities now have even easier access to their favorite pastime. The allure of bingo continues to grow, attracting more and more stars to the world of numbered balls and anticipation.
