Bernard Botting, a 98-year-old World War II veteran, has achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the oldest ever winner of the People's Postcode Lottery, securing a staggering £685,000 in
winnings. Mr. Botting, who served in the Royal Marines during the war, entered the lottery three times, winning £228,571 for each ticket.
The heartwarming moment took place at his home in Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset, where three generations of his family joined him to celebrate. Initially believing he had won £228,571, his family was overwhelmed with emotion when he was presented with two additional golden envelopes, bringing his total prize to £685,713.
In an exclusive statement, Mr. Botting expressed his astonishment at the win, saying, "I never thought I'd win; I just hoped. The family are all going to get something."
His late wife, Doris, who passed away in 2017 at the age of 93, had been his partner in playing the Postcode Lottery. Mr. Botting's wife had shared his commitment to sharing any winnings with their family. Although she's no longer with him, his daughter will be the primary beneficiary, as she has been his steadfast support since his wife's passing.
Mr. Botting served in the Royal Marines during World War II and has traveled extensively around the world as part of his service in the Armed Forces. He started playing the People's Postcode Lottery with his late wife, emphasizing their commitment to sharing any winnings with their family. He paid tribute to his daughter, who has taken on the role of caring for him since his wife's passing, and expressed his deep appreciation.
The September Millions windfall was shared with four of Mr. Botting's neighbors in his postcode area, with the remaining portion of the £3.2 million prize distributed among 1,053 people in the broader postcode area of TA8 2.
The heartwarming stories didn't end there, as other winners in the same area also shared their joy. Shirley Baynham, a dinner lady who inherited the lottery from her late husband, intends to treat her two sons and six grandchildren, as well as the staff at the primary school where she works. Another neighbor, Peter Wrigglesworth, a former lorry driver, intends to share some of his newfound fortune with his wife, Joyce, while considering his options for the rest.
The winners are now looking forward to various plans, including traveling to see family members in the United States and New Zealand, taking Nordic cruises, and enjoying quality time with their loved ones.
The People's Postcode Lottery, costing £12 per month to play, offers guaranteed daily winners. Players use their chosen postcodes and are automatically entered into all draws, making it an exciting opportunity for people to share in the joy of winning.
This heartwarming story showcases how luck can shine on individuals and their communities, bringing smiles and opportunities to those who least expect it.