A couple from County Fermanagh in Northern Ireland were ecstatic to learn they had won £3.8m in the Lotto draw just over a week before Christmas. Jonny Johnston and Christina Williams found out they had secured the jackpot when Mr. Johnston received an email from the National Lottery as he was out with colleagues. The 45-year-old initially thought he had won a much smaller prize until he checked his account balance and saw the excess of zeroes. He and his partner of 25 years confirmed the win with the National Lottery.
After informing their three adult children, the couple celebrated with coffee instead of traditional champagne. They plan to use some of the money for a first family holiday, possibly to the Caribbean and maybe as part of a cruise. The family also plan to purchase a vintage car and a tractor for one of their children. They also shared that they had put a few more presents under the Christmas tree, including designer bags and a pair of £450 leather boots.
Though the couple has decided to go public with their win, they have no plans to give up their jobs at the moment. Ms. Johnston says they like to work because it gives them a purpose, and Mr. Johnston wanted to prove that it is possible for anyone to win the lottery. They even put getting married on their wish list; previously, they had put it off due to the cost.
The couple’s story is an early highlight of the new year, a joyous message as the world continues to battle with Covid-19. In Northern Ireland, the virus has killed more than 2,000, while the UK toll has exceeded 80,000. However, as the vaccine rolls out, there is a glimmer of hope, and the story of Johnson and Williams’ win is a welcome reminder that hope and good fortune can occur amidst adversity.
While the couple will undoubtedly experience changes in their lives with this newfound wealth, Mr. Johnston emphasizes that it won’t make them different people. Instead, they want to continue to work as it gives them a sense of purpose. However, now they have the means to enjoy some of the finer things in life, such as taking that long-awaited family holiday and purchasing a few luxurious items
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More