Former Ferryhill miner wins £1m on Lottery

The 72-year-old will spend some of his winnings on a caravan

A retired miner has thanked his late mother after scooping £1m on the Lottery on her birthday.

Thomas Harwood, 72, of Ferryhill, County Durham, won the EuroMillions Millionaire Raffle Prize on Friday after visiting his mother's grave.

The grandfather-of-four said he was "sure" his mother had a hand in his win.

He plans to buy a static caravan near Redcar beach and help his granddaughter with her university fees.

Mr Harwood, who was a miner for more than 25 years, woke up on Sunday after dozing off watching snooker and checked his winning ticket.

'Lucky person'

He said: "I really can't believe that I have won. It's amazing.

"I went to visit my mum and dad's graves on Friday and I took some flowers as it would have been mum's birthday.

"I'm sure she's got something to do with this win.

"I really couldn't believe it when I realised I'd pocketed £1 million."

Mr Harwood is divorced, with a son, four grandchildren and a great-grandson.

He added: "I beat the odds when I beat mouth cancer three years ago so I guess I am quite a lucky person.

"I win every now and again on the horses but the most I've ever won on the Lottery is £10, so to win £1m is just unreal."