Exeter man wins £1 million on scratchcard

Lee Dart checked it 20 times

An Exeter man won a £1M top prize on The National Lottery’s ‘£30M Christmas Extravaganza’ Scratchcard. 

Lee Dart, who owns his own sign-making company, had popped into his local shop where he decided to treat himself to a festive Scratchcard. His tactic when it comes to picking Scratchcards was to select them completely at random and this time it proved to work well for him. After scratching it there and then in the shop, it quickly dawned on him that this was not just any small prize. 

Recalling the moment, Lee said, “I couldn’t believe it, I must have checked it 20 times. You never expect it to happen to you - especially that close to Christmas. It’s been the best Christmas present!” After realising exactly what he was holding, Lee quickly made a bee-line for home and hid the Scratchcard under his pillow for safe-keeping. 

The win means Lee can now pay off his mortgage, something he says will give him the freedom and space to take the time to think clearly about his next steps. 

“I’ve worked hard all my life, and this gives me a chance to pause and really consider what I want to do going forward,” he explained. 

In true festive spirit, Lee wasted no time sharing the joy with a few Christmas treats for those close to him, and has plans to invest wisely so he can give his family a secure financial future.  

Lee explained, “Helping my loved ones means everything to me, and being in a position to make a difference to the people I care about is a great feeling. It’s amazing to know that I can help them out after all the support they have given me over the years.” 

Andy Carter, Senior Winners’ Advisor at Allwyn, operator of The National Lottery, stated, “What a fantastic way for Lee to enjoy the festive season, sharing the joy. A £1M win on a Christmas Scratchcard is truly special. Clearing his mortgage and being able to help loved ones makes this a really heart-warming win. We’re delighted for Lee and wish him all the very best for the future.” 

Lee played the ‘£30M Christmas Extravaganza’ Scratchcard, which costs £5 and offers players a 1 in 3.19 chance of winning any prize. Lee’s unexpected stroke of good fortune serves as a reminder that Christmas wishes really can come true - sometimes when you least expect it. 

Lee is now looking forward to a relaxed future, knowing that the New Year ahead holds lots of exciting possibilities thanks to his new festive fortune. 
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