High seas and high teas for Set For Life winners

It took a while for Angela Hathorn, 63, and husband Steve, 68, to come to terms with their amazing Set For Life win. But after matching all 5 main numbers in the Set For Life draw on Monday 23rd January, 2023, the Orpington couple have set about writing a bucket list of incredible experiences.

Recounting the story of their big win, Angela said she was initially worried there was a problem with her ticket when she took it to a local shop to be checked. She said, “Every Sunday I buy my Set For Life tickets for the coming week and normally get both checked at the end of the week in the shop. Unusually, I went into the Co-op on Tuesday and asked the lady to check the numbers for the Monday night draw. She had a puzzled look on her face as she stared at The National Lottery terminal and then asked her colleague to take a look.

“I was starting to get nervous, worried there was a problem and not helped by a large queue behind me. Then, the shop assistant said they couldn’t pay out over £100, and I should call the National Lottery line to claim my prize. I didn’t even ask how much, I just went back to my car to drive home.”

Angela admits her knees were a bit wobbly as she walked from the Co-op to her car. When she got home Steve realised something was up and the couple called Camelot to confirm the win.

Angela said, “The man at The National Lottery told me that it sounded like I had won and that someone would be contacting me as soon as possible to confirm the win. I couldn’t stop saying, ‘oh my god, oh my god!’. Steve was white as a sheet! I did try to have some lunch but could only manage half a sandwich.”

Angela put the precious ticket in her old National Lottery plastic wallet and placed it in her handbag for safe keeping. The couple then shared the incredible news with sons James and Lee, although they had some trouble convincing them the win was real.

The couple want to spend their prize on memorable experiences. Angela explained, “I’m not really into material things, but this fabulous win will help Steve and I enjoy life to the full. As we are both retired we have the time so I want to go on a cruise, having watched lots of television programmes on this type of holiday. I love going into London, so I can see more visits for activities like afternoon tea on the horizon. And we love to visit historical and heritage sites.”

Angela and Steve, who have been married for 41 years, also plan to spend more time in the garden. Angela said, “I love my garden, it’s an oasis…it’s a very special place for me, so I think I’ll treat myself to some more plants.”

7th February 2023