Wales is a country that prides itself on a rich history and a strong community spirit. Across the valleys and coastal towns, there is a real sense of hope and kindness. One thing that captures this hope is the lottery. Every week, thousands of people in Wales buy tickets, each one dreaming that maybe this time their numbers will be drawn.
Over the years, many people in Wales – whether that’s north east wales or south – have seen those dreams come true and had their lives changed in an instant. Some have won small prizes, while others have become millionaires overnight. These lucky winners come from all parts of the country, from quiet villages to busy cities. Their stories show that anyone can win, no matter who they are or where they live.
The Winning Moment
When someone wins the online lotto, the moment often feels surreal. Some people check their tickets again and again just to make sure it is true. There are tears, laughter, and a feeling of shock that can take a while to fade. For Welsh winners, this moment is often shared with family and close friends. In smaller towns, the news can spread very quickly, and soon everyone knows someone local has won the jackpot.
Winning the lottery changes lives in an instant. People can pay off their debts, buy their dream homes, or take long holidays. Some winners choose to prioritise their family, ensuring that everyone close to them benefits from their good fortune. Others take their time before making significant decisions, as they want to think carefully about how to spend their money.
The Davies – 2016
In July 2016, a syndicate made up of five family members, the Davies from Monmouth, won an incredible jackpot of £61 million, leaving each member with just over £12 million each. The family hit the Euromillions jackpot while mum (Sonia) and partner (Keith) were on a trip to America to visit Keith’s daughter, who was graduating, while Sonia was there to have a vital surgery after she was diagnosed with cancer.
Sonia’s surgery was a success, and Keith believed that he and his family were on a streak of good luck. Keith called Sonia’s daughter from America and asked her to go and buy a Euromillions ticket. The family believed that Sonia and Keith were overwhelmed by the good news of Sonia’s surgery, but they bought the ticket at Keith’s insistence. This decision would change their lives forever, as this ticket turned out to be the winning one. The family instantly jetted off on holiday but made sure to keep the news quiet as they did not want to be overwhelmed with media attention. Sonia’s daughter, Courtney, actually came home from the holiday early, as she had promised her friends she would be home in time for the BoomTown Fair music festival.
Les Scadding – 2009
Mechanic and Lorry driver Les Scadding became the UK’s biggest ever lottery winner after securing a staggering £45.5 million jackpot with his wife, Samantha. Les, from Caerleon, bought his ticket while his bank account was £68 overdrawn. After beating testicular cancer five years prior, Les would always joke to his family, stating that he would become a millionaire one day. Les and Samantha decided to use their winnings for good, donating to heart and cancer charities. In addition to their charitable donations, they gave seven-figure sums to each of their children.
Les was a huge Newport County fan, and he decided to use some of his newfound fortune to invest in the club that he holds so close to his heart. He eventually became a major shareholder in the club and became the owner in 2012. After fulfilling his dream of owning Newport, Les retired to spend more time in Barbados, where he had a holiday home.
The Catering Girls – 2017
In 2017, a six-member syndicate from Neath Port Talbot shared a jackpot of £25 million, taking home over £4 million each. The members, all part of the catering staff at Neath Port Talbot Hospital, decided to celebrate their incredible win by handing in their notice at work. The now-famous ‘Catering Girls’, made up of Julie Saunders, Doreen Thompson, Louise Ward, Jean Cairns, Sian Jones and Julie Amphlett, did not immediately know about their victory as they did not check their ticket until the day after the draw.
Some group members used their money to visit Las Vegas and purchase a new tumble dryer. At the same time, Doreen donated some of her funds to her local council to save the cenotaph in her village of Ystalyfera.
The Welsh Community
In Wales, people are known for their strong sense of togetherness. When someone wins the lottery, it often feels like a win for the whole community, especially in smaller villages. Local shops, pubs, and cafes all share in the excitement, as it feels like a victory for everyone. These moments bring people closer and remind everyone that good news can spread happiness far beyond one household.
Some winners have chosen to use their money to make a direct difference in their towns, with Doreen Thompson being a great example of this. They have helped fund community centres and new facilities for everyone to enjoy. Others have sponsored local events or made donations to hospitals and charities. These actions help create a positive legacy that lasts much longer than the excitement of the win.
Underage gambling is an offence. You must be over 18 years old to gamble.
Any form of gambling should always be fun, playing in a way that is right for you. It’s good to set limits, take time out or set up reminders.
Please gamble responsibly and in moderation.
For more information on the tools available to help to keep you safe or if you want advice or support you can call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 (England, Scotland and Wales or visit Gamblingtherapy.org).
