NEIGHBOURS in Alcester have struck it lucky on the People’s Postcode Lottery.
Retired teacher Graham Duffill is among seven residents to win a share of the £1million jackpot after B49 6PX landed Postcode Lottery’s weekly Millionaire Street prize on Saturday April 20. Each ticket was worth £125,000, but one neighbour doubled that with two tickets.
And the 83-year-old petrolhead said he can now live out his boyhood dreams behind the wheel of a classic car thanks to a £125,000 windfall.
The dad-of-three said: “It’s made my day and it’s going to make people’s lives much easier.
“I’m a big petrolhead, so I’ll upgrade my car. A 140 miles an hour job. I love driving and going fast, so I can upgrade my car to a faster one and just enjoy driving.”
The OAP currently owns a special model of Fiat’s Abarth but said he’ll start browsing for a classic car from his past.
He continued: “The best car I’ve ever driven is a Toyota MR2, they just don’t make them like that anymore, but I’d like one.”
Graham also plans on helping his three sons along with sending a portion of his winnings to friends in Africa.
He added:“My neighbours all deserve it. It’s a lovely group here, a fantastic family. We all look out one another and look after each other when we have any problems.”
His neighbour Evelyn Evans, 73, bagged the largest share of the £1million pot – doubling her winnings with two tickets.
Now the gran-of-ten plans to take her whole family on holiday as well as ticking off a bucket list trip of her own. But she insists she won’t be quitting her job.
Evelyn said: “It’s just mind blowing. To think your postcode does actually come up when you least expect it. It’s been absolutely unforgettable. I’ve never ever thought I’d win such a big amount.”
Evelyn, who works as a military maintenance, repair and overhaul specialist primarily sourcing spare parts for military helicopters, said she loves her job and won’t be giving it up in a hurry.
She said: “I love what I do. I’ve always worked, they’ll be carrying me off in a box and I’ll still be typing on the computer, ringing a customer, or sending an email.”
Thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery, Alcester Day Care also received a game-changing £15,000 from Postcode Community Trust.
Carole Zambonini, founder and chairman of Alcester Day Care, said: “I couldn’t believe it when I received the news of the funding.
“The biggest amount we’d ever received was £1,000 so this is incredible. We can get so much with the £15,000 thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery, and we’re just eternally grateful.”
Other charities in the Alcester area receiving funding include Wixford Village Hall, set to receive £75,000, while £20,000 will go to 1st Alcester Scout Group.
