A group of 80 fortunate bus drivers have won a share of a substantial EuroMillions prize, thanks to the careful planning of one employee. The National Express workers at Yardley Wood Bus Depot in Birmingham will each receive an equal portion of £108,510.50 from the jackpot. The mastermind behind the syndicate, Dennis Houghton, 73, has been organizing the group for over 17 years, utilizing a combination of selected numbers and Lucky Dips.
Dennis revealed that the company’s management was relieved that the syndicate didn’t match all the numbers, as it could have caused a shortage of drivers in Birmingham. The winning combination of five main numbers and one Lucky Star number was drawn on May 22, 2026. The syndicate, named “On the Buses,” was established in 2009 when Dennis was approached by a fellow driver to pool their resources for the EuroMillions Jackpot.
The syndicate plays a mix of Lucky Dips and their own chosen numbers every week, selected by Dennis randomly from a jar containing numbers one to 59. The group continues to grow, with many members contributing even after retirement. Dennis humorously described the syndicate as an “accidental” creation that quickly expanded from a casual group to an organized 80-member syndicate with a waiting list.
Upon discovering their win, Dennis was amazed by the thousands of pounds they had won, as he initially expected a smaller amount. The excitement spread among the syndicate members, with many calling to confirm the win. The winning EuroMillions ticket was purchased by Dennis during his holiday at Geralds Supermarket in Dawlish Warren, Devon. The syndicate’s ticket was one of two UK winners that matched the required numbers.
The successful syndicate continues to enjoy their unexpected windfall, planning to use the prize money for various personal endeavors.