National Lottery down with all UK players now blocked from accounts for days

If you try and fail to buy a National Lottery ticket this weekend, you won't be alone. It's been confirmed that the website, app and in-store terminals are now all offline and won't be switched back on again until from Monday. The massive shutdown won't please fans of the famous balls but there is good reason why things aren't working.

Allwyn, who now operates the National Lottery, says teh closure will help to install important upgrades to its systems, that's something it says hasn't been done for over 10 years.

The shutdown started immediately after Saturday night's draw, with no tickets now available until Monday.

Along with ticket sales ending, the Lottery also says players won't be able to claim prizes or log in to check their accounts.

That means those wanting to check their winnings will have to wait.

Explaining more, the National Lottery said, "We're spending this weekend upgrading the technology that powers The National Lottery. These upgrades will help us to modernise The National Lottery, which hasn't had a significant technology upgrade since 2009. It's all about improving your experience over the coming months and years.

"Following Saturday's draws, our website, app, and in-store terminals will be unavailable until Monday. This means you won't be able to buy tickets, claim prizes, or log in during this time. Your account details and data will remain safe and secure."

Although it's unclear exactly what changes are taking place, Czech-based operator of the Lottery, Allwyn says the work includes the delivery of more than 30 new systems.

"This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver The National Lottery that the UK deserves," said Allwyn chief exectuve, Andria Vidler.

Things should be back to normal from Monday when tickets, accounts and options to buy will be back online.