A local amateur football side in Gloucester, Longlevens AFC, has struck gold after winning a £1 million prize in the National Lottery. The windfall arrived following more than 30 years of the club’s long-serving president purchasing weekly tickets using the same set of numbers.
Club president Bill Davis, 73, matched five main numbers plus the bonus ball in a draw held last month. Davis, whose personal involvement with the club spans over 50 years since he first joined in the 1970s, managed the ticket purchases on behalf of the organization rather than for personal gain.
The Winning Combination
- Winning Numbers: 1, 9, 15, 21, 32, 51
- Strategic Origin: Six original committee members selected one number each when the lottery launched.
- Commitment: The club has consistently played this specific sequence for over three decades, even as some of the original members have passed away.
Reflecting on the achievement, Davis emphasized that the victory belongs to the entire community. He noted that while he had always balanced family, work, and football, the club held a uniquely significant place in his life. He expressed gratitude toward his wife and sons for their ongoing support throughout his long tenure as a volunteer and committee member. Not as an individual, and I couldn’t be happier, i’ve been playing Lotto for decades as a member of the club. “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 added: “There is absolutely no way I could have maintained that passion without their patience, support and encouragement, especially that of my wife, Linda, paying tribute to his family that has allowed him to devote such energy 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.”.
Club Vision and Future Plans
The prize money is earmarked for securing the long-term stability of the club. Davis described the win as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to ensure the team continues to serve as a vital community hub. The club is currently considering options, including the potential purchase of their leased facilities to protect their home ground for future generations. And I can’t think of a better use for this money than helping secure its future for generations to come, the club has been such a huge part of my life for around half a century.
Community Impact
- Social Value: The club provides friendship, opportunities for youth, and a central gathering point for the local community.
- Operational Model: The success of the club has always relied on the dedication and passion of its countless volunteers.
- Next Steps: Members are currently organizing a formal celebration to commemorate the win and discuss how the funds can provide lasting benefits.
Allwyn, the operator of the National Lottery, congratulated the club, with representative Andy Carter describing the three-decade-long consistency as a remarkable story that could easily be adapted for film. Longlevens AFC currently competes in the Hellenic League Premier Division at step five of the National League System. Davis noted that while they have proven that anyone can win, they might consider updating their numbers for future draws.
