A WEYMOUTH woman is packing her suitcase after winning a cruise holiday in a draw.

Rosie Ford, 56, from Weymouth, was a recent winner in Gala Bingo’s Ultimate Cruise campaign.

Mrs Ford’s prize includes a trip for two around the Mediterranean.

She said: “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do.

“I couldn’t believe it. I’m taking one of my sisters as she cares for our mum and works really hard.”

Mrs Ford’s husband, Alan, will stay at home and look after their children and dog while she is away.

Mrs Ford, who goes to play bingo on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, said: “I’ve never won anything.

“I’m just overwhelmed by it to be honest with you.

“That’s the only social thing I have – with the dog and the two girls. It’s absolutely wonderful and I can’t wait.

“I haven’t had a proper holiday in years, not what you’d call a holiday.”

Once on board, Mrs Ford will stop at some of Europe’s top destinations including Villefranche and Toulon in France, Livorno and Rapallo in Italy and Barcelona in Spain.

Mrs Ford’s home for the week will be the Thomson Dream, a cruise ship that features four restaurants, six bars, three lounges, a nightclub, beauty salon and a casino.

She will also be welcomed with a Champagne reception followed by three dedicated Gala Bingo sessions in a private room during the cruise.

Mrs Ford added: “It’s just something different.

“What it’s actually going to be like, the excitement of going on the boat, the trips that are organised – it’s just going to be a different world. It’s going to be lovely.”

Mrs Ford was one of 10 members chosen from 10 Gala Bingo regions to win the first set of tickets.

Gala Bingo is the UK’s largest bingo operator, running over 135 clubs.

Simon Wykes, managing director of Gala Bingo, said: “This is one of the biggest prize giveaways we have ever offered to bingo fans.”