Dreams have become reality for a young Lowestoft woman – thanks to her National Lottery winning grandmother.

Jean Swatman, 67, scooped the £2 million Lotto jackpot in 2013, and has used a share of her winnings to help her granddaughter Lauren Utting, 21, through drama school.

Now Ms Utting, who had dreamt of becoming a professional singer and dancer since she was young, has finished at drama school and is celebrating the end of a successful first season as an entertainer.

Raising a glass to her nanny who made it all possible, Lauren said, 'Despite long hours, six days a week, I really am living the dream.

'From that first day at Jumping Jax (Dance School) right through to my years with Venue of Performing Arts I only ever wanted to be a performer.

'I was determined to reach this position and I can't thank nanny enough for all the support she has given me along the way, both financially but also emotionally.'

Equally delighted, Mrs Swatman – a grandmother of seven, who has treated her nearest and dearest with new cars, holidays and homes, while also helping out the local community – said: 'When I won the Lotto jackpot I made sure that everyone was a winner by helping out all those closest to me and supporting the community with sponsorships and the like.

'I've loved being in a position to do that but something that brings me, and the rest of the family, so much joy has been helping Lauren realise her dreams by putting her through drama school. Without the win the whole family would have clubbed together to help but there's no doubt Lauren would still have graduated with a huge debt to pay off.

'Thanks to my win, she's also won and can start her performance career debt free, putting all her energy into that rather than juggling bills.'

Lauren has almost completed her first season as an entertainer at a popular Holiday Park on the south coast, and successfully auditioned for her next role with a well known UK resort brand where she will bring festive cheer to holidaymakers this Christmas.

Mrs Swatman added: 'A lottery win isn't just about the person who wins but about the people that winner can help. Every time I see Lauren up on stage dancing or singing with the other professionals, with a beaming smile on her face, I say a little thank you once again for that lottery win!'