Bricklayer Frank Bithell, 77, Wins £2,500 Hospice Lottery Jackpot in Memory of Late Wife
A semi-retired bricklayer from Holt, 77-year-old Frank Bithell, experienced a moment of disbelief when he opened an envelope containing a £2,500 cheque from the Nightingale House Hospice Lottery.
Bithell, who has long been a supporter of the hospice, shared, “I just popped the post to one side not thinking anything of it. I went to open it later and nearly fell over when I saw the £2,500 cheque.”
While thrilled with his unexpected windfall, Frank admitted he’s still deciding on how to spend it.
“I don’t know what I will spend the money on yet, but I have got 21 children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, so I am sure it will be put to good use,” he said.
The win is bittersweet, however, as Frank’s late wife, Maria, who passed away in 2021 just before the couple’s 50th wedding anniversary, was a faithful Nightingale House Lottery player for over a decade.
Reflecting on the moment, Frank shared, “It is just a shame she is not here with me to enjoy it. We would have had a holiday maybe. Maria played the lottery for years as she wanted to support the hospice.”
The couple’s story traces back to a fateful evening in Wrexham where they first met at a dance. Though they didn’t get to dance together that night, Frank walked Maria home, and they later went on a cinema date that marked the beginning of a lifelong bond. “The rest, as they say, was history,” Frank reminisced.
In addition to supporting the hospice lottery, Frank has a personal connection with Nightingale House, where many of his friends and family have been cared for. Over the years, he’s raised thousands for the hospice through performances with his band, The King Bees.
As a guitarist and big fan of The Rolling Stones, Frank recalled fondly, “The hospice is so important, and we have always supported in any way we can. On the many occasions I have visited, I can see the good work done here.”
Amanda Kinsey, Lottery Promotions Manager at Nightingale House, expressed gratitude for Frank’s contributions, saying, “We would like to thank Frank for his support with our lottery, which raises a vital amount each year to fund the services for patients and their families. We hope Frank and his family enjoy their big win.”
The cheque comes as a fitting tribute to Maria’s dedication to the hospice, reflecting the legacy of care that Frank and his family hold close.
