Brockworth resident, Andrew Foster, turns 71 in 2025 and he'll enter his retirement the proud owner of a £540,000 Cyprus villa — after winning a competition he'd entered online.
The three-bedroom villa is located just minutes from the beach in Paralimni and features its own private pool and balcony.
Andrew currently works in a packing job and is planning to continue working for a while before making the decision to pack his bags with his partner, Anna, to spend their later years in their new home.
He said: 'Whilst we’re still in the UK working, we might rent it out as an Airbnb so we get income from it and then when we retire we’ll have a choice of continuing to rent it out or living there.'
Andrew found out the good news by opening the boot of a car and finding a Cypriot flag and guidebook. He said: 'I’ve never won anything in my life, so I’m blown away. I saw the advert and thought I would have a go but never in a million years did I expect to win. It’s going to change our lives.
'My partner and I know Cyprus a lot. She lived there for 16 years and has got family out there, so we go as often as we can to see them.'
Anna, who was in on the surprise, had the tough task of keeping it a secret until the big reveal.
Sean Hall helped to deliver the prize to the couple as a presenter for BOTB competitions, he said: 'This is one of the most incredible prizes we’ve ever given away, and seeing Andrew’s reaction was just priceless.
'The villa is phenomenal – with its private pool, beautiful balcony views, and prime location near the beach, it’s the perfect place for Andrew and his family to enjoy for years to come.
'It’s a smart move to rent it out to begin with — not only will it bring in extra income but it means they can visit whenever they want and still have the villa ready for them when they retire. It’s a win-win!'
