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'In the first four weeks, I spent £3 million' : The east Belfast man who won £10 million

'In the first four weeks, I spent £3 million' : The east Belfast man who won £10 million

Author: Belfast Telegraph July 3, 2026 Duration: 41:43
The BelTel
NewsDaily

In 1996, Peter Lavery's life changed overnight. The Short Strand man was earning £300 a week driving buses when he became one of Northern Ireland's biggest ever lottery winners, scooping up a £10.2 million. Nearly 30 years later, he's one of Belfast's best-known businessmen. 


Today, he's the founder of Titanic Distillers, bringing whiskey production back to the city for the first time in almost 90 years, despite giving up drinking after being given what he calls a health 'ultimatum'.


He joined Cathy Martin to talk about working the day after winning the jackpot, legendary nights out, and if money really can buy you happiness.


This edition of the BelTel is an episode of the Belfast Telegraph's business and lifestyle podcast, In Good Company - available wherever you get your podcasts.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


For a clear-eyed look at the politics and people shaping Northern Ireland, turn to The BelTel. This podcast moves beyond the headlines, offering context and depth on the stories dominating the conversation. Regular voices include seasoned journalists like Allison Morris, Sam McBride, and Suzanne Breen, who bring their sharp analysis and insider perspectives directly to you. Presented by Ciarán Dunbar, the discussions are timely, informed, and grounded in the region's complex reality. New episodes arrive three times a week, each one serving as an essential briefing that investigates pressing issues, debates differing viewpoints, and informs listeners with nuance. It’s a direct line to the heart of the news from those who know it best. This is a production from the Belfast Telegraph, hosted on Acast.
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