An amateur football club has won £1million on the Lotto after its president tried for over 30 years, reports BritPanorama.
Longlevens AFC in Gloucester secured the remarkable sum by matching five main numbers and the bonus ball in last month’s draw.
The club’s president, Bill Davis, 73, purchased the winning ticket and has maintained a longstanding connection to the club for over five decades. Davis stated, “This is Longlevens AFC’s win. I’ve been playing Lotto for decades as a member of the club, not as an individual, and I couldn’t be happier.”
Davis first joined Longlevens AFC in the 1970s and has participated in various roles on the club’s committee. He noted, “There have been three main priorities in my life – family, football and work.” He added with a touch of humour, “My wife might have a few things to say about the order I’ve put those in, but whilst family will always come first, football comes a close second.”
He expressed gratitude toward his family, particularly his wife, Linda, for their support in allowing him to commit so much time to the club. “She’s been behind me every step of the way, and we’ll both enjoy the win, together with our sons Stephen and Andrew, who have followed in my footsteps and now bring their own passion and dedication to the club as members of the committee,” he said.
Davis revealed that the winning numbers, 1, 9, 15, 21, 32, and 51, have significance to the club, as they are tied to its history. He explained, “When the National Lottery first started, six committee members each picked a number. Some of those friends are sadly no longer with us, but we’ve kept playing that same line in every draw ever since. It’s incredible to think that after all these years, those numbers have finally come good.”
Now, with the funds in hand, Davis aims to ensure that “every pound delivers lasting benefits.” Longlevens plays its football in the Hellenic League Premier Division. He stressed, “There’s no reason whatsoever to stop playing now. We’ve proven anyone can win, but we might change the numbers up a bit.”
Davis is taking a long-term approach to the funds, with plans focused on safeguarding the club’s future. He stated, “The club is important to so many people, so we’re taking a long-term view about how this money can help safeguard Longlevens AFC for many years to come.” He emphasized that football clubs are about more than just the sport; they foster community and connections among people.
Reflecting on the win, he concluded, “If this windfall can help protect and grow what’s already been put in place for future generations through everyone’s hard graft, then that’s what really matters.”
