The National Lottery will shut down for approximately 36 hours this weekend while implementing its most significant technological overhaul since the game began three decades ago.

The suspension begins at 11pm on Saturday evening and continues until late Monday morning, affecting millions of regular players nationwide.

The temporary closure means punters cannot purchase lottery tickets or collect winnings at any retail outlet throughout the UK during this period.

The shutdown follows immediately after Saturday evening's Lotto and Thunderball draws, with normal service expected to resume before Monday's Set For Life draw.

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The National Lottery will shut down for approximately 36 hours this weekend

The comprehensive shutdown affects multiple platforms, with digital services including the National Lottery website and mobile application becoming unavailable alongside physical retail locations.

While Saturday's EuroMillions draw remains unaffected, with its jackpot reaching £145million, all other lottery game sales and prize redemptions will be suspended across the nation.

Operator Allwyn has advised customers to complete any ticket purchases, result checks and prize collections before the 11pm Saturday deadline.

Scratch cards will remain available for purchase during the closure period.

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Results for Saturday's draws can still be viewed through the National Lottery's YouTube channel while other systems remain offline.

Czech company Allwyn assumed control of the National Lottery's decade-long operating contract from Camelot in February 2024.

The firm identified that the lottery's technological infrastructure and shop terminals originated in 2009, predating the launch of iPads, Uber and Instagram.

This outdated technology requires comprehensive modernisation to support Allwyn's plans for transforming the National Lottery.

The company has acknowledged that some shop terminals might face extended downtime if upgrade procedures encounter unexpected complications.

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Scratch cards will remain available for purchase during the closure period

The technologicall transition has experienced setbacks since Allwyn acquired the licence, delaying the introduction of new draw games originally planned for 2024.

Andria Vidler, Allwyn's chief executive, described the upgrade as "a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver The National Lottery that the UK deserves".

She acknowledged the temporary inconvenience, stating: "These major upgrades will mean short-term disruption for players and our retail partners."

Vidler emphasised the long-term benefits: "But they will allow us to deliver on our promise to bring new, exciting games, a better player experience and our commitment to double returns to Good Causes from £30 million to £60 million every week by the end of the 10-year licence."

Despite missing initial targets due to upgrade delays, Allwyn maintains its commitment to doubling charitable contributions.