A substantial £1 million EuroMillions prize remains unclaimed, sparking a heartfelt appeal from lottery officials for ticket holders to search their belongings. The ticket, which carries the code VLPL 28287, was bought on 15 August 2025 in Birmingham and must be claimed before midnight on Wednesday, 11 February. This situation is part of a larger issue, with over £14 million in winnings from various National Lottery games still awaiting their rightful owners.
A Call to Action
Andy Carter, a senior winners’ adviser at Allwyn, the company that operates the National Lottery, has made a poignant plea for potential winners to rummage through their pockets, bags, and even old coats. “This ticket could belong to anyone who was in or around Birmingham in the week leading up to the draw,” he noted, suggesting that the lucky winner might not even be a local resident.
Carter’s message is simple yet urgent: “Check your pockets and ask your friends to do the same. It’s possible someone you know could be sitting on a life-changing sum of money.” If the ticket holder does not come forward by the deadline, the prize, along with the interest accrued, will be redirected to support National Lottery-funded projects across the UK.
Unclaimed Prizes on the Rise
This unclaimed £1 million is one of seven significant prizes from the National Lottery that have yet to be claimed, highlighting a growing concern about unawarded winnings. The total unclaimed amount exceeds £14 million, a staggering figure that could positively impact countless community projects across the nation. The National Lottery typically allows winners a period of 180 days from the draw date to claim their prizes. Those who suspect they might have won are encouraged to reach out to the National Lottery Line at 0333 234 5050 or to email help@national-lottery.co.uk for assistance.
A Glimpse into Winning
The excitement of winning the lottery can be overwhelming, as demonstrated by the recent experiences of Joe and Jess Thwaite from Gloucestershire. In May 2022, they celebrated a record-breaking EuroMillions jackpot of £184,262,899, marking a monumental shift in their lives. Joe, who received the life-altering news via email, vividly recalls the moment: “I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t go back to sleep.” Their journey from ordinary lives to extraordinary wealth serves as a reminder of the potential within each ticket purchased.
Why it Matters
The urgency surrounding unclaimed lottery prizes underscores a deeper narrative about hope and opportunity. For many, purchasing a lottery ticket is not just about the potential windfall; it represents dreams of a better future. The possibility of winning can ignite imagination and inspire individuals to think about what they could achieve with newfound wealth. As the clock ticks down to the claim deadline, the hope remains that the rightful owner will emerge, transforming their life and igniting dreams far beyond mere financial gain.
