Brits Would Buy Neighbour’s House to Pick Their Friends
A new poll reveals how Brits would spend a £318 million lottery jackpot – from buying empty train seats to avoiding exes becoming millionaires.
One in 10 Brits would buy the house next door just to handpick their neighbours if they won the lottery, according to a survey of 2,000 adults [1]. The research, commissioned by The National Lottery, found that 52% would indulge in some form of frivolous spending, including hiring a lookalike to attend dull events or paying someone to queue for them for life [2].
Others would permanently reserve a table at their favourite pub or even buy the empty seat beside them on every train journey [1]. Despite the playful fantasies, nearly all (97%) would share their winnings, distributing the fortune among an average of three people [2].
Over half (52%) would give money to their children, 61% to their partner, and 16% would even treat their pet to a luxury lifestyle [1]. Charity donations would go to 35%, while just 7% would share with work colleagues [2].
When asked who they’d want to win if they didn’t, 37% said their partner, followed by their mum (27%) and children (24%) [1]. Dads came lower at 14%, with siblings even less likely – 10% for sisters, 9% for brothers [2].
But 35% admitted there’s someone they’d be secretly gutted to see become a millionaire. The most unpopular choices include the already wealthy (30%), previous winners (16%), and politicians (14%) [1]. Social media show-offs (12%), former bullies (11%), and those with inherited wealth (11%) also rank low [2].
For some, the thought of an ex-partner winning was especially painful – 25% said they’d rather walk on hot coals than see an old flame strike it rich [1].
Andy Carter, senior winners' advisor at Allwyn, the organisation that runs the National Lottery, said the findings highlight that while people enjoy imagining extravagant scenarios, the desire to share wealth with loved ones remains a core part of the jackpot dream [2]. The Powerball draw closes for entries at 11.55pm on Monday 19 October, with the jackpot at £318 million [1]. The story was first reported by Mirror and Daily Star.
Sources
This article is based on reporting by the outlets below.
- Mirror: The truth about how Brits would spend their lottery millions revealed
- Daily Star: What Brits would really do with a lottery jackpot win - and it's surprising
