A County Durham lorry driver has scooped an incredible £750,000 on a radio competition, fulfilling a long-held dream.
Dave Alexander from Seaham answered Hits Radio's 'Make Me a Winner' call while at home with his wife Debbie, after spending years entering the competition.
The 50-year-old had made the competition part of his routine, often pulling over in his lorry during the winning call window in case the phone rang.
Once he realised this call was real, he and his wife were stunned.
He said: "I honestly thought it was someone winding me up.
"Only my family knew I'd been entering every week for years, so I just couldn't believe it.
"You never think it's actually going to be you."
He said: "My brother was here delivering a second-hand sofa, he was here for the whole thing, so we obviously had a few beers to celebrate.
"I'd say to him every Friday, 'maybe it's my turn this time.'
"I don't think he laughed quite so much after that phone call.
"Luckily, I didn't have to get up for work the next morning."
And Dave now hopes his win will allow him to help his family buy a home.
He said: "We’ve never been in a position to be able to help them out before, so getting them on the property ladder means everything to me.
"There's nothing better than being able to help your family, it’s what life’s all about.
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"I've worked all my life since leaving school.
"I enjoy my job and all my mates are there, so I'll definitely carry on."
He is now planning a special holiday in Menorca later this year with his wife, brother, and sister-in-law.
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