Punters flock to $60m lure

Mark Six outlets were packed yesterday as people flocked to try to win an estimated $60 million first prize - the second-biggest offering in the history of the lottery - with two of them later hitting pay dirt.

The Mark Six celebrated its 30th birthday on Tuesday, but the $40 million first prize was not struck.

Selling hours yesterday for the latest draw were extended to 9pm at all Jockey Club betting outlets.

The biggest first prize ever in the Mark Six was $70 million, drawn on September 12, 2003.

The lottery has created more than 2,700 millionaires in its 30 years.

The Haiphong Road branch at Tsim Sha Tsui is considered the luckiest outlet, selling five first-prize tickets during the past two years.