A British couple, Ray and Barbara Wragg, won £7.6 million in the national lottery in 2000, prompting them to donate over £5.5 million to charity instead of indulging in luxury. Their philanthropic efforts benefited more than 70 charities, earning them immense respect and recognition, including a special trophy from lottery organizers. Despite personal loss, their legacy of generosity continued, funding various causes, including medical expenses for their daughter and support for veterans, showcasing their commitment to community support.
Have you ever imagined hitting the jackpot in the national lottery? For an ordinary British couple, this dream became a reality, dramatically transforming their lives overnight! In 2000, Ray and Barbara Wragg learned they had won an astonishing £7.6 million, equivalent to over €8.7 million. This incredible windfall granted them financial freedom that many only dream of.
However, rather than embarking on a life of extravagance, the couple faced a moment of introspection and inspiration. Deeply rooted in their values of humility and simplicity, they were initially taken aback by the enormity of their newfound wealth. In response to this realization, they made a monumental decision that would impact thousands in their hometown of Sheffield—they donated more than £5.5 million of their lottery winnings! Now, 86-year-old Ray Wragg shares with the BBC the motivations behind this life-altering choice made alongside his wife.
A Choice Guided by Generosity
In contrast to many lottery winners who often splurge on lavish items or extravagant vacations, Ray and Barbara chose a path defined by generosity. They reserved a modest portion of their winnings for their comfort and their children, while generously contributing 70% of their fortune to meaningful causes, benefitting over 70 charities. Their selfless actions not only earned them immense respect but also turned their story into a powerful example of philanthropy. The couple even received a special trophy from the lottery organizers in recognition of their charitable contributions.
Though Ray lost Barbara to septicemia in 2018 at the age of 77, she had previously expressed that their winnings felt “too important for two people.” “We were all doing well. Like other families, we saved. It changed our lives, but not us as people. I still look at the price of a pair of socks,” Ray recalls with a smile during his conversation with the BBC. Their lottery win allowed them to retire early, freeing Ray from the construction site and allowing Barbara to step back from her night shifts at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital.
The Couple’s Journey of Giving Back
Before their lottery win in 2000, Ray and Barbara had never traveled abroad. However, they quickly made up for lost time, enjoying over 29 cruises around the globe, largely due to Barbara’s fear of flying. One of their notable purchases was a white Range Rover, valued at £52,000. This windfall also marked the beginning of their philanthropic journey, as they funded medical expenses for their daughter at Sheffield Hallamshire Hospital and purchased over 30 televisions for children in medical facilities, ensuring they could enjoy some entertainment during their stay.
Ray and Barbara’s generosity extended to numerous causes, including donations to underprivileged schools, support for hospitals, and aid for World War II veterans. In 2003, they facilitated a trip for 50 war heroes who needed funding to attend the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Monte Cassino. Their remarkable contributions earned them the Pride of Britain award from The Mirror and an invitation to Buckingham Palace, solidifying their legacy as champions of kindness and community support.