A lorry driver who has scooped up a £5.2million jackpot has revealed his surprise first purchase since becoming a millionaire and quitting his job.
Gary MacDonald, 60, began the day that would change his life forever by waking up at 5.20am for his shift as a delivery driver.
He checked his phone and saw that he had received an email from the National Lottery, telling him that he had been successful in the April 16 draw.
MacDonald, from Barking, east London, at first thought that he was £35 richer, before he re-read the message and realised there was an additional prize of more than £5.2 million.
He admitted that despite his newfound wealth, he still 'shopped around for the best deal'
National Lottery/PA
The 60-year-old has revealed that the first thing he purchased after learning he was a millionaire was a Shark vacuum cleaner.
He admitted that despite his newfound wealth, he still “shopped around for the best deal”.
“We are not flash people; we are very down to earth and know the value of things,” he said.
However, despite the practical purchase, the 60-year-old and his partner Anita have lavish plans for the cash as well.
MORE LIKE THIS:
The 60-year-old has revealed that the first thing he purchased after learning he was a millionaire was a Shark vacuum
National Lottery/PA
The 60-year-old has revealed that the first thing he purchased after learning he was a millionaire was a Shark vacuum
SHARK | AMAZONThe keen Formula One fans are already planning to go and watch multiple races in person.
“We both love Formula 1 and I never miss a race on TV. We follow all the British drivers. Even if it starts at 3am, I'm up and watching it,” he said.
After first seeing the six-figure sum, the 60-year-old quickly decided it was time to retire from his role at Lakeside Shopping Centre.
MacDonald, who has played Lotto each week since the game started, said: “It dawned on me there was absolutely no point in doing another day's work, not today, not any day.
“So, at 6.30am, I called my boss and resigned - I had been thinking about slowing down for the last five or six years. I have always worked and enjoyed what I do, but it is physically hard work.”
MacDonald’s winning numbers in the draw on April 16 were: 27, 36, 39, 48, 57 and 59
National Lottery/PA
Anita, his partner of 25 years, initially thought they had scooped around £5,000, with the 60-year-old telling her: “No love, it’s more than that!”
The pair were planning to marry in a civil partnership later this year, however, their new fortune means they can bring the date forward and host a more elaborate celebration.
MacDonald’s winning numbers in the draw on April 16 were: 27, 36, 39, 48, 57 and 59.
“We have worked hard all our lives and never really had time for hobbies or pastimes. Any spare time has been spent supporting others, we were brought up to put others first,” he said.
“It will be amazing to have the time and money to now treat ourselves a little and maybe try something new. Just this morning I thought maybe I might try lawn bowls.”
