EuroMillions £115m winners reveal mundane thing they bought with jackpot
A couple who won £114.9 million on the EuroMillions have revealed their surprisingly modest first purchase – a £12 pack of M&S knickers.
Frances Connolly, 58, and her husband Patrick, 60, from County Armagh, Northern Ireland, scooped the fourth-biggest UK lottery prize at the time on New Year’s Day 2019.
The former social worker and teacher’s practical purchase set the tone for how the down-to-earth couple would handle their newfound wealth.
Frances explained the urgent need for underwear arose when they had to leave their home suddenly after their win became known.
“We left our home with nothing, to keep us safe in case anybody found out about it and came to the house. And they did — within minutes,” she told The Sun.
“When we arrived at a hotel in England on Friday night, ahead of the press conference, I had to phone our Fiona and say, ‘Will you nip down to Marks & Spencer?'”
Her daughter returned with a three-pack of knickers for £12.
Since winning their fortune, the Connollys have given away more than £60m to family, friends and charitable causes.
Frances has established two charitable foundations – one named after her late mother Kathleen Graham in Northern Ireland, and the PFC Trust in Hartlepool, where the couple have lived for over 30 years.
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“It gives you a buzz and it’s addictive. I’m addicted to it now,” the 58-year-old said of her charitable giving.
The couple had prepared for their generosity, using a list of beneficiaries Frances had created even before their win.
Despite their vast wealth, the Connollys maintain a modest lifestyle in their County Durham mansion, which sits on seven acres of land.
While Frances drives a Jaguar and Patrick has an Alfa Romeo, their luxury car is a second-hand Aston Martin.
The couple even turned down an offer to upgrade to first-class flights, with Frances explaining she preferred to sit beside her husband rather than in a separate cubicle.
Their practical approach extends to their views on extravagance, with Frances questioning why anyone would spend £25,000 on champagne.
Despite their wealth, the Connollys say they are now busier than ever, attending meetings and charity events while also renovating a house in Ireland.
She maintains a structured daily routine, beginning each morning with a 7:30am swim alongside a group of friends.
The former teacher remains grounded about their fortune, saying: “If you were a d***head before you had money, you’re going to be a d***head afterwards.
“Money liberates you to be the person that you want to be.”
