Former Port Talbot Tata Steel Workers Win £1m on the National Lottery

A group of retired Tata Steel office workers from Port Talbot have become millionaires after scooping £1 million on the National Lottery.

The 15‑strong syndicate, made up of former colleagues who stayed connected through their weekly £5 lottery contributions, struck gold in the EuroMillions draw on Friday, February 27, matching the winning Millionaire Maker code.

The group first formed seven years ago as a “light‑hearted way to lift spirits” during long 14‑hour shifts at the steelworks — and the tradition continued long after retirement.

Among the winners are Port Talbot locals Gill Furlong, Christine Davies, Sally Wise, Julie Lambert, Allan Evans, Ian Howells and Raja Prasad.

“I thought it was an error”

Syndicate leader Paul Davy, 61, said he was stunned when the winning message appeared on his National Lottery app.

“I couldn’t believe it — a message just popped up on the app. I was checking Saturday’s draw when it flashed up. I thought it must be an error, but then I saw the winning code.”

The £1m prize will be split equally between the 15 members, with many already planning how they’ll spend their share — from paying off mortgages and helping family to dream kitchens, new cars and holidays.

For Paul, a cruise is top of the list.

“Me and my partner went on a cruise a couple of years ago. She was nervous at first because she doesn’t like boats, but we absolutely loved it. Another cruise is definitely on the cards — maybe the Mediterranean this time.”

A perfect excuse to reunite

The win has also given the group a reason to celebrate together. While a few members still meet occasionally “for a game of pool and a beer,” the full syndicate hasn’t gathered in years.

Now, they say, that’s about to change.

Lottery funding continues to support UK communities

Each week, National Lottery players help raise around £32 million for good causes. Since its launch, more than £52 billion has been distributed to projects in every UK postcode area.