Dermot O’Leary presented Joe and Jess Thwaite with their winnings
(Picture: PA)We now know who the UK’s biggest ever lottery winners are, following their recent £184million jackpot win on the EuroMillions. Joe and Jess Thwaite from Gloucestershire appeared for the cameras today, holding the big cheque and spraying Champagne that lets us know it’s official.
But not everybody takes part in this familiar ceremony. Of the UK’s 10 richest winners, the Thwaites are among only four who chose to reveal their good fortune to the media.
The lottery’s operator, Camelot, is apparently often asked to confirm a rumour that it pays out more if the winners go through with the announcement – and denies this has ever been the case.
It stands to reason they would prefer winners to go through with the publicity. Every time we see ordinary folk turn into overnight millionaires, it raises the possibility ‘it could be you’ and builds interest in players buying a ticket.
In return, Camelot makes the arrangements for the media display. But aside from this, the guidance and support given to those who claim prizes over £500,000 is the same whether going public or not.
Winners might well find the organised day of photos and interviews preferable to their identity later leaking out against their wishes, and having to deal with the intrusion when it eventually arrives. Sudden wealth might not be the easiest thing to keep under wraps, and the attempt at secrecy could be even more stressful than the world knowing your new status.
But for others, the attention – and everyone knowing your business – might just be too unwelcome, and rather enjoy their fortune in peace.
Would you go public if you won the lottery? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below for the chance to be featured on the ES website tomorrow.
