Ray Wragg, alongside his late wife Barbara, known for their remarkable generosity, won £7.6 million on the National Lottery back in January 2000. The couple transformed their lives through this windfall, but rather than indulging excessively, they dedicated their fortune to helping others. Over the years, they became pillars of philanthropy within their community, donating more than £5.5 million to various charities and good causes.
The moment they discovered their windfall is still fresh in Ray's memory. "Ray, we've got three numbers!" Barbara exclaimed on the fateful evening as they watched the live draw. One number after another, their ticket led them to the jackpot. "I said 'you're kidding me?!' I was flabbergasted," Ray recalled. A pint of Guinness and two glasses of wine later, their lives would change forever as they called their children to share the astonishing news of their win.
Initially, the duo decided to make some comforting purchases. Ray, who at the time was still working as a roofer, bought himself a shiny £52,000 white Range Rover. The couple also treated themselves to trips around the Caribbean, realizing dreams they never thought possible. Yet, this was only the beginning of their remarkable legacy. Shortly after their financial fortunes shifted, they began thinking of ways to assist others. Barbara once said their winnings felt "too much for two people," and together they decided to give back.
The Wraggs made significant contributions to local charities including £12,000 to help World War II veterans revisit Monte Cassino, Italy, where they fought and sacrificed so much. They also donated hospital equipment, such as bladder scanners for the Royal Hallamshire Hospital where Barbara had spent 22 years working as a nurse. Their philanthropic efforts didn't stop there.
Every Christmas for six years, Ray and Barbara once funded 250 children from disadvantaged backgrounds to enjoy the local pantomime, ensuring the joy of the holidays reached every child. They even donated furnishings and entertainment systems to local hospices, allowing children to enjoy movies from their hospital beds. Through the years, they supported more than 17 charities including the Meningitis Trust, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, and targeted initiatives for children battling serious illnesses.
Remarkably, the Wraggs remained humble and grounded, often opting to check the price of socks rather than embrace excess. Ray, now 86, reflects on their good fortune and maintains the ethos of helping others. “I’m still aware of prices,” he stated. “I still look at the price of a pair of socks, you know!” Their story is one of incredible generosity coupled with extraordinary humility. Despite having resources far beyond what most can even fathom, their focus always landed on the well-being of those around them.
The couple received special recognition for their efforts, including awards from Camelot — the organization behind the National Lottery. They were invited to prestigious events such as the Pride of Britain Awards and even had the honor of attending gatherings at Buckingham Palace. A notable moment for Ray was mingling with various celebrities including Richard Branson and Ainsley Harriott, yet he often found celebrating their philanthropic endeavors more exciting than the high-profile connections.
Tragically, Barbara passed away from sepsis at the age of 77, yet her legacy of charity and kindness lives on through the stories shared by those they helped. Ray continues to honor her memory through their shared mission of giving. “We had people say, ‘do you not want to keep it for yourselves?’ But we made so many people happy,” he explained. The Wraggs’ down-to-earth attitude and the impact they left on their community speak volumes about their character and humility.
Even with their incredible financial gain, Ray insists the wealth did not change who they are. “We were working before; we were all right. We saved up like everyone else does. Winning changed our lives but not who we are as people,” he expressed. It's this grounded approach, combined with consistent acts of kindness, which has turned the Wraggs from mere lottery winners to cherished community philanthropists.
Today, Ray continues to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Whether it’s taking morning swims at his local leisure center or catching Sheffield United games, he carries with him the spirit of giving. He reflects on their experiences fondly, particularly the joy they shared and the positive change they enacted together. There is no doubt the Wraggs are remembered fondly, not just for their lottery win, but for the hearts they touched along the way, leaving behind memories of laughter, gratitude, and tremendous generosity.
Ray’s story is one of hope and inspiration—the kind of tale where winning isn’t merely reflected through monetary value, but through how much love and generosity one can give, even after hitting the jackpot. Their unwavering commitment to helping others showcases what true wealth really means.
