Thunder 'balds'

The National Lottery has recruited a group of bald models to head up a new promotional campaign in Liverpool and Manchester and become walking Thunderballs.

The 'Thunderbalds' are being used to publicise big changes to the Thunderball game which includes an increased top prize of £500,000, an extra Friday draw date, extended number range, and new £3 prize for matching just the Thunderball.

A National Lottery spokesperson said: "Thunderball has been around since 1999 and has always attracted a loyal player following. The Thunderball game offers National Lottery players the best chance of winning half a million pounds on a £1 game."

To play the new-look game, players must now choose five main numbers from an extended number range of 1-39 and one Thunderball from 1-14. There is also a new prize level so matching the Thunderball on its own will now bank £3