Football Club Scores £1 Million Lottery Win After Decades of Playing Same Numbers

An amateur football club has secured its most significant windfall after winning £1 million on the lottery, having consistently played the same numbers for over 30 years. Longlevens AFC, based in Gloucester, achieved this jackpot 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 five decades. Davis, who first joined Longlevens AFC in the 1970s, has held numerous roles within the club, including serving on the committee and behind the bar, before becoming president.

"This is Longlevens AFC's win. I've been playing Lotto for decades as a member of the club, not as an individual, and I couldn't be happier," Davis stated. "The club has been such a huge part of my life for around half a century, and I can't think of a better use for this money than helping secure its future for generations to come."

The chosen numbers—1, 9, 15, 21, 32, 51—have a history tied to the club's early days. "When the National Lottery first started, six committee members each picked a number," Davis explained. "Some of those friends are sadly no longer with us, but we've kept playing that same line in every draw ever since. It's incredible to think that after all these years, those numbers have finally come good."

Davis indicated that the funds would be allocated towards safeguarding the club's long-term future, with a potential consideration being the purchase of its leased facilities. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and we want to make sure every pound delivers lasting benefits," he said. "The club is important to so many people, so we're taking a long-term view about how this money can help safeguard Longlevens AFC for many years to come."

Members are reportedly planning a celebration to commemorate the club's fortune. "Everyone involved with Longlevens AFC has contributed to making it the community club it is today and this feels like something the whole club can enjoy together," Davis remarked. "I've always believed football clubs like Longlevens are about much more than football. They are about community, friendships, opportunities for young people, and bringing people together."

Andy Carter, from National Lottery operator Allwyn, commented, "After 32 years of playing Lotto, Bill Davis's £1 million win is truly remarkable, and the sort of story you'd expect to see on the big screen. We're delighted for them and know the prize will have a lasting impact on the club's future."