EuroMillions ticket worth £177k bought in Hertfordshire goes unclaimed

The ticket, bought in Watford for the January 16, 2026 draw, matched five main numbers and one Lucky Star, but the prize was not claimed before the deadline of midnight on July 15.

As a result, the funds will now be donated to National Lottery-funded community projects.

Andy Carter, senior winners’ advisor at Allwyn, which operates The National Lottery, said: “Despite widespread coverage urging people to check their tickets, the EuroMillions ticket-holder failed to claim their prize before the deadline and has unfortunately missed out on this life-changing win.

“However, the money will now go to good causes and add to the £33 million raised each week for National Lottery-funded projects.

“With over £53 billion raised for good causes since launch, this funds hundreds of projects in every postcode area across the UK.”

Funds are distributed to schemes in the arts, sports, heritage, health, education, environment, and charity sectors.

While the lost EuroMillions prize marks a missed opportunity for one individual, Mr Carter said that the funds will still bring positive change.