Scaffolder wins record-breaking £11.5m jackpot from £1.50 bet

ADVERTISEMENT

A scaffolder from Norfolk has become one of the UK’s biggest-ever online gambling winners after scooping a record £11.5 million jackpot from a £1.50 stake.

Arron Freeman, 44, who runs ASL Scaffolding, landed the life-changing sum while playing the popular Mega Moolah slot game on Betfred’s online platform.

The win, which took place on 5 June, is the largest in Betfred’s 58-year history.

Speaking to the Eastern Daily Press, Freeman said he was still coming to terms with the shock of the win and hinted at plans to give back: “I am in shock, but I am not gonna say too much at the minute.”

He added that proceeds from selling his story would be used to help build a homeless shelter.

Freeman’s partner, Kelly Dighton, has publicly documented her personal recovery journey on social media, and the couple are reportedly considering a holiday while they plan their next steps.

A close friend, who asked not to be named, said the win had left Freeman “in shock” and described the payout as “life-changing”.

Betfred founder Fred Done personally called Freeman to congratulate him, offering VIP hospitality at a Manchester United match.

“He’s a sensible chap and is planning to invest some of his winnings into property for his family,” Mr Done told the Eastern Daily Press. “But not before enjoying a holiday of a lifetime.”

He also advised Freeman to stop gambling altogether following the extraordinary win.

Most popular ↑

CIJC pay deal brings wage rises and extra holiday for construction workers

The Construction Industry Joint Council (CIJC) has confirmed new...

New podcast gives women in scaffolding a platform to be heard

Advanced offshore scaffolder Vicky Welch is preparing to launch...

Record entries as Scaffolding Excellence Awards shortlist is announced

The shortlist for the Scaffolding Excellence Awards 2026 has...

ScaffChamp confirmed to return to Vilnius in 2027

ScaffChamp will return to Vilnius in 2027 after Layher...

Layher UK to host Eggborough open morning in July

Layher UK will open its Eggborough depot to contractors...

Latest news

ADVERTISEMENT
More from
Latest articles

New podcast gives women in scaffolding a platform to be heard

Advanced offshore scaffolder Vicky Welch is preparing to launch a new podcast sharing the...

Record entries as Scaffolding Excellence Awards shortlist is announced

The shortlist for the Scaffolding Excellence Awards 2026 has been announced, with organisers reporting...

Layher UK to host Eggborough open morning in July

Layher UK will open its Eggborough depot to contractors and industry professionals on 21...

CIJC pay deal brings wage rises and extra holiday for construction workers

The Construction Industry Joint Council (CIJC) has confirmed new minimum pay rates for construction...

ScaffChamp confirmed to return to Vilnius in 2027

ScaffChamp will return to Vilnius in 2027 after Layher confirmed the global scaffolding competition...

Government clarifies Building Safety Act position on temporary scaffolds

NASC says scaffold contractors should not be asked to meet Building Safety Act dutyholder...

AT-PAC establishes permanent Middle East base with UAE launch

AT-PAC has officially launched a dedicated business in the United Arab Emirates, strengthening its...

Double Seawork award for ScaffFloat’s hoisted pontoon system

ScaffFloat has won two awards at Seawork 2026 in Southampton for a hoisted access...