A SINGLE dad who scooped up the £1million Merry Millions still worked of Christmas. Didzis Pirags, 36, was won big on his lunch break after buying the National Lottery’s scratchcard. The new millionaire had already put a deposit down on his first home and said his Christmas fortune was life-changing for him and his five-year-old […]
A SINGLE dad who scooped up the £1million Merry Millions still worked of Christmas.
Didzis Pirags, 36, was won big on his lunch break after buying the National Lottery’s scratchcard.
The new millionaire had already put a deposit down on his first home and said his Christmas fortune was life-changing for him and his five-year-old son.
Didzis, who is chef and kitchen manager at The Hungry Horse in Garstang Road, Broughton, got a lucky itch when he spent £5 on the Instant Win Game Merry Millions on Saturday.
The hardworking dad, who works 60-hour weeks including weekends, didn’t let customers down and continued to work both Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Speaking at the Preston Marriott Hotel the chef said: “This is totally unbelievable what has happened and the best dream come true ever at Christmas time.
“I will be able to give my son the best ever life now which is all I have ever wished for.”
He added: “I am currently living above my place of work and now I can look forward to owning a home of my own and a very special place to bring my son up.
“I have put a deposit down on a four bedroom house with a garden which I know my son will love!”
One of the first things Didzis plans on splashing out on is a brand new car.
He also said he will give some of his winnings to family and friends, including giving away his current car to pal once he replaces it.
After scooping up the £1m prize, the dedicated dad will be handing in his notice at work to look for a job where he can spend his weekends with his son.
He said: “All I want is to be able to provide the best possible life for my son and this win will enable me to do exactly this.”
It comes after Brits have been told to triple check their lottery tickets at a £40million jackpot prize has yet to be claimed.
One lucky EuroMillions player in the UK hit it big after matching all five number and the two lucky stars two weeks ago.
The lucky ticket was bought in Dorset and is worth a staggering £40,957,696.60.
On the night of the draw the winning EuroMillions numbers were 18, 31, 32, 38 and 48, with the Lucky Stars 4 and 12.
Camelot can pay on lost, destroyed or stolen tickets within 180 days of the December 3 draw if a player submits a written claim by January 2.
The deadline for anyone with the ticket in their possession is May 31.
National Lottery players are being urged to check, double check and then triple check their tickets so the lucky player can claim their prize in time for Christmas.
Once the winner comes forward Camelot can begin the process of handing over the life-changing sum.
The ticket-holder can call 0333 234 50 50 if they believe they are the lucky winner.
