Read the small print
Kirk Stevens, a 39-year-old engineer, faced an unexpected twist in his life after winning £10,000 a month for 30 years in the Set For Life lottery draw. Despite the win, Kirk found himself penniless due to a small print rule.
“Laura had told me we’d live the life of Riley if we won,” Kirk told The Sun, expressing his disbelief at how quickly his fortunes changed.
From Jackpot to Heartbreak
Kirk and his partner, Laura Hoyle, celebrated their win in 2021 by purchasing a Porsche Cayenne and funding Kirk’s post-grad engineering degree. They had ambitious plans to buy properties and build a business empire.
However, their relationship fell apart in 2022, just 16 months after their win. Laura claimed the winnings as the ticket was bought with her card, leaving Kirk with nothing.
Another significant concern for Kirk is the custody of their two cocker spaniels, Teddy and Barney. “The only communication we have now is over the dogs,” he told The Sun. Kirk worries that Laura might try to take the dogs away from him, which he says would hurt more than losing the lottery money.
Laura’s Lavish Lifestyle
Post-breakup, Laura moved into their planned £500,000 home alone and began a new relationship. She enjoys a lavish lifestyle, documented on social media with holidays, a sleek new look, and a trip to the Strictly ballroom in Blackpool. “She made it very clear that the money was hers alone,” Kirk shared, noting the drastic change in her attitude post-win.
Engineer to ghost hunter
Kirk has since shifted his focus to his passion for ghost hunting. He continues to document his paranormal activities on his YouTube channel, ‘Ghost Hunter Kirk,’ which has around 6,000 subscribers. Kirk said:
“People used to ask me why I never quit my job as an engineer. I liked having a sense of purpose, something to get up for each morning. But it was more than that. The truth was, I never felt secure enough with Laura to give up my job.”
Despite the hardships, Kirk’s story highlights his resilience and determination. From an engineer with grand plans to a solo ghost hunter, he continues to move forward, embracing his new path.
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