Mystery Falkirk resident misses chance to be a millionaire

The should-have-been lucky winner bought the ticket in the Lotto Medal Draw last year, but their chance of collecting the cash has gone forever.

The deadline for collecting the cash from the one-off draw passed at midnight last night – and that means the money (and the interest is has earned) will now go to a generic pot funding projects across the whole UK.

Andy Carter, senior winners’ advisor at the National Lottery said: “Unfortunately, I can confirm that the ticket-holder did not come forward within the deadline to claim their prize and has now sadly missed out on this substantial amount of money.

“To avoid this unfortunate situation happening again, I would urge all National Lottery players to check their tickets on a regular basis.”

He added: “We tried very hard to find the ticket-holder and it’s a real shame that they have missed out, but there is still one winner – the nation.

“This money, and all the interest earned over the 180 days, will now go to benefit projects all over the UK funded by The National Lottery.”

The draw, on August 27, was held to thank National Lottery players for the support they have given Team GB through playing the lottery, and there was a 180-day time limit for collecting the prize.

Lottery bosses say anyone concerned about lost or unchecked tickets could opt either set up a National Lottery direct debit or play online at www.national-lottery.co.uk.

Numbers can be entered in advance and winners are notified online if their numbers come up.

There have been nearly 900 projects in the Falkirk Council Area made possible by the National Lottery, including Falkirk Infinity Gymnastics Club.

National Lottery funding of £4,250 allowed the club to buy an air track and landing area for gymnastics training.

Denny and District Tennis Club gained £8,500 for the development of five outdoor tennis courts aimed at increasing the coaching opportunities available to the local community.