Pictured above: University of Lincoln student, Olivia Kirk (19) with Lighthouse Property Services Office Manager, Jacqui Todd

Lucky University of Lincoln student Olivia Kirk has won a year's free rent after entering Lighthouse Property Services' annual prize draw worth over £3,000.

This is the second year the property management firm has run the competition; last year's winner - International Relations student Gregory Hodson (23) - saved over £2,000 by having all his rent paid by Lighthouse.  

All early bird students who signed tenancy agreements with the company between January and March 2010 were entered into the prize draw to win an entire year of rent-free living from this month (September). 

Olivia (19) is about to start her second year as a Biomedical Science student at the university and said it was a great relief hearing that she had won the year's free rent.

"I was really surprised because I'd forgotten all about it to be honest," said Olivia. "It was so long ago that I entered that it came as a bit of a shock. I was on a plane on the way to visit my Dad in America when I got the call.

"I was so happy - it's such a relief now I think about it because I was quite worried about how I was going to pay my rent before my student loan came through. Now it's not something that I have to worry about!"

Ian Thornton, Lighthouse Student Lettings Manager, said: "The prize draw is very popular and is now a key part of our marketing strategy, helping to attract tenants as part of our ongoing student lettings campaign. 

"Olivia can now concentrate on her university work and on enjoying the coming year without having to worry about finding funds for rent which is an increasing concern among students. 

"We are delighted to have been able to run this competition and will look to carry out similar marketing activities in the future to encourage students to use Lighthouse when searching for or renewing their yearly accommodation."

To date Lighthouse has successfully housed over 7,000 students, offering a range of impressive all-inclusive rental packages starting at just £59 per week.

In addition to the attractive first prize, the second prize of £1,000 rental discount was won by Gina Clark while Katie Sciabica picked up the third prize of £100 of Morrisons vouchers.

Properties available include everything from renovated terraced houses to modern luxury apartments and are all located in the city centre close to university campuses. Many also come fully furnished, have wireless Internet access and cater for individuals or groups of up to 12 people.