A lorry driver from Barking has quit his job after a £5.2 million lottery win. Gary MacDonald, 60, from Barking, has been delivering parcels to Lakeside Shopping Centre in Essex for more than 30 years. He now plans to retire and enjoy a slower pace of life with his partner of 25 years, Anita, 55.
The couple are planning to buy a new home with a large garden. Gary said, "It is difficult to make sense of it. It said I had won £5,208,504 and to 'please call The National Lottery straight away.' Anita thought it was five thousand and something. I was saying 'no love, it’s more than that.'"
He tried to call the National Lottery at 5:30 AM but the line was closed. He explained, "I’ve always been a laidback person but that was the longest two and a half hours of my life waiting until the phone lines open at 8 AM." Once the win was confirmed, Gary called his boss and resigned. He stated, "It dawned on me that there was absolutely no point in doing another day's work, not today, not any day. So, at 6:30 AM, I called my boss and resigned. I have always worked and enjoyed what I do but it is physically hard work."
The couple are now planning to get married this summer. They were already looking at holding a civil ceremony later in the year but have now brought it forward to the summer with plans to make it a bigger celebration.
Gary also plans to indulge his passion for Formula 1 and witness it in person. He said, "We both love Formula 1 and I never miss a race on TV. We follow all the British drivers. Even if it starts at 3 AM, I'm up and watching it." The couple have revealed their first purchase after the Lotto windfall was a Shark vacuum cleaner. Gary remarked, "We still shopped around for the best deal on the vacuum cleaner. We are not flash people; we are very down to earth and know the value of things."
Gary has always played Lotto each week since the game started and now plays online. His remarkable win has not only transformed his financial outlook but also provided an opportunity for a new chapter in his life.
In a recent interview, Gary expressed disbelief at his sudden fortune, saying, "That was the longest two and a half hours of my life," referring to the anxious wait for confirmation of his winning ticket. The couple's story highlights the mixed emotions that often accompany sudden wealth, including excitement and the pressure to make wise financial decisions.
As they embark on this new journey, Gary and Anita are focused on enjoying their time together and planning for their future. With dreams of travel, home improvements, and a wedding on the horizon, their lives are set to change dramatically. While many lottery winners face challenges adjusting to their new wealth, Gary seems determined to remain grounded.
"Winning the lottery is a dream for many, but we want to ensure we don’t lose sight of what’s important," Gary added. The couple’s commitment to living simply despite their newfound wealth sets a refreshing example in a world often characterized by extravagance.
As they prepare for their wedding and a new home, Gary and Anita are excited about what the future holds, embracing both the joys and responsibilities that come with their life-changing win. Their story serves as a reminder that money can bring opportunities, but love and companionship remain at the heart of a fulfilling life.
