A FORGETFUL punter in Huddersfield was today urged to come forward and claim a £250,000 Christmas present.
National Lottery operators made the plea over a prize left unclaimed from the Thunderball draw on August 30.
Fears are growing that the winner may have torn up the ticket - not realising it was a winner.
It is one of three cashpots waiting to be claimed in the Yorkshire region.
Dianne Thompson, Camelot chief executive, said today: "I am desperate for all these winners out there to come forward.
"In many cases it could make a real difference at this special but expensive time of the year."
Lottery chiefs first made their plea over the Huddersfield ticket at the end of September.
Since then it has become the largest unclaimed prize.
The ticket's winning numbers are 18, 21, 24, 25 and 26 and Thunderball number 03.
The holder of the ticket has until February 26 to cash it in - otherwise the prize goes to good causes.
Mrs Thompson said: "It would be such a shame for anyone to miss out on money that's rightfully theirs.
"I urge players to dig down the backs of sofas, turn out pockets, empty drawers and look wherever they might have unchecked tickets."
A massive £60m in prizes is unclaimed at present.
If players believe they have a winning ticket they should call 0845 910 0000.
