The search is now on to find the owner of the winning Lotto ticket, bought in the Amber Valley Borough area, who matched five numbers plus the bonus ball in the draw on Saturday 19 April 2008.

The winning Lotto numbers on that date were 5, 19, 24, 38, 42, 46 and the bonus ball was 27. The lucky ticket-holder has until 5.30pm on Thursday 16 October 2008 to come forward to make their claim.

If no-one comes forward with the winning ticket before the prize claim deadline, then the prize money, plus all the interest it has generated, will go to the Good Causes – adding to the £21 billion already raised through sales of lottery tickets since The National Lottery launched in November 1994.

A National Lottery spokesperson said: "We're desperate to find this mystery ticket-holder and unite them with their winnings – this amazing prize could really make a difference to somebody's life. We're urging everyone to check their old tickets again or look anywhere a missing ticket could be hiding.

"Try checking in the pockets of clothing, in wallets, bags and down the back of the sofa – someone out there could literally be sitting on a fortune! We have the champagne on ice and our fingers crossed that the lucky winner comes forward to claim their win."

To jog Lotto players' memories, on Saturday 19 April 2008, 27, starring Kevin Spacey was showing at cinemas across the country, Duffy topped the album chart with Rockferry and Estelle featuring Kayne West topped the singles chart with American Boy.

Closer to home, Amber Valley Rugby Club fans were commiserating after their 25-16 away defeat against Southwell in the Midlands Division 4 North East league, while railway fanatics were enjoying Derby's 2008 model railway exhibition at the Assembly Rooms in Derby.

With all National Lottery draws, players have 180 days from the day of the draw to claim their prize if they have the winning ticket.

Anyone who believes they have the winning ticket for any of the National Lottery draws within the 180-day deadline should call the National Lottery Line on 0845 910 0000.

Anyone concerned about lost or unchecked tickets may like to consider either setting up a National Lottery Subscription, playing online at www.national-lottery.co.uk, on their mobile phone, or by using the Sky Active service on digital TV.

Numbers can be entered in advance and lucky winners are notified online if their numbers come up. For further information call 0845 912 5000 or visit www.national-lottery.co.uk.