A LUCKY bingo fan was celebrating last night after scooping a £196,000 jackpot.

David Smith, 27, from Easington, east Durham, began his winning streak by winning £10 on the teatime flyer, at Buckingham Bingo Club, Peterlee, on Sunday.

He went on to get a full house in 37 numbers, the fewest in the country that day, winning the National Bingo Game for £195,000, the regional prize of £1,077, and the club prize of £86.

Mr Smith, a Durham County Council chef, said he was astounded by his luck.

"I just can't believe it - I'm thinking it's a dream," he said.

"I have no idea what I'll spend the money on."

Mr Smith signed up as a member of the club as soon as it opened six weeks ago, and goes twice or three times a week, sometimes with his mother and sister.

He said he had already had a few smaller wins before scooping the jackpot.

"I've had quite a few good wins - I've had about £480," he said. "This is a great start to the New Year."

Anthony Murphy, trainee manager at the club, said: "The hall was in an uproar when David won, with everyone jumping about and screaming.

"David ran round the hall kissing customers and staff.

"We are putting a big party on for him two weeks on Sunday."