Amateur Football Club Wins £1 Million Lottery After 30 Years of Playing Same Numbers

An amateur football club has won £1 million on the lottery after consistently playing the same numbers for over three decades. Longlevens AFC, based in Gloucester, achieved their most significant win by matching five main numbers and the bonus ball in a draw last month.

The winning ticket was purchased weekly by club president Bill Davis, 73, whose involvement with the team spans more than fifty years. Davis expressed that the win is for Longlevens AFC and aims to help secure its future. He has been playing the lottery as a club member for decades, prioritizing family, football, and work throughout his life.

Davis's wife, Linda, and their sons, Stephen and Andrew, who also serve on the club's committee, have been supportive of his dedication. The winning numbers – 1, 9, 15, 21, 32, 51 – were initially chosen by six committee members when the National Lottery began, some of whom are no longer alive.

"There's no reason whatsoever to stop playing now," Davis said. "We've proven anyone can win, but we might change the numbers up a bit." The club plans to use the winnings to secure its long-term future, potentially by purchasing its leased facilities. The first XI team currently competes in the Hellenic League Premier Division.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and we want to make sure every pound delivers lasting benefits," Davis stated. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding Longlevens AFC for future generations. Members are organizing a celebration to commemorate the club's good fortune.

Davis highlighted that clubs like Longlevens are about community, friendships, and opportunities for young people, not just football. He credited the win to the hard work of countless volunteers. A spokesperson for the National Lottery operator Allwyn described Davis's win as remarkable after 32 years of playing and expressed delight for the club, anticipating a lasting impact on its future.