Snooker Enthusiast Wins Multi-Million Pound Cornish Property in Omaze Draw
Simon Mawdsley, a 41-year-old web developer from Bury, Greater Manchester, has become an overnight multi-millionaire after winning a stunning £4 million Cornish home in an Omaze prize draw. The life-changing victory has sparked immediate plans to transform part of the luxurious property into his personal snooker haven, complete with what he describes as a "mini Crucible."
From Dining Table to Green Baize: A Snooker Dream Realised
Simon, who purchased his winning entry for just £15 after entering draws for over two years, revealed his excitement about finally having space for a proper snooker table. "I've always loved snooker with my father, but we never had room for a real table and had to play virtually at home," he said. "Now we've got more than enough room—I could even use my cue extension."
He envisions setting up his own mini Crucible within the property, boasting that the unbelievable coastal views will perfectly complement the green and blue balls on the table. However, he admitted that his wife Riza, 35, an auditor originally from the Philippines, "might need a bit of persuading" before embracing the idea of swapping out the dining table for green baize.
A Chaotic Notification and Family Celebrations
The delivery of the good news hit an initial snag when Omaze representatives arrived at the wrong address—Simon had forgotten to update his details after moving from Bury to Bolton. "Thankfully we didn't move that far," he explained. "Only to Bolton, so they nipped down the road to tell me what I'd won."
Upon discovering his windfall, Simon was "absolutely dumbfounded," standing in "utter disbelief" with his wife, who works 14-hour days. Despite her busy schedule, Riza "started jumping up and down" upon hearing the news and has been "jumping with joy ever since." Simon's parents initially refused to believe the win, but his mother "burst into tears" upon realising it was genuine, soon planning which room she would occupy during visits.
Luxurious Property Details and Financial Windfall
The contemporary 5,200 sq ft home sits on a private plot between Crantock Beach and Fistral Beach, offering sweeping estuary views from nearly every level. Designed to maximise light and outlook, it features expansive south-facing terraces, glazed balconies, and floor-to-ceiling doors framing panoramas over the Gannel Estuary.
Accommodation includes five bedrooms, a home office, spacious living areas with a wood burner, a snug and cinema room, a gym, and tiered gardens with direct access to the tidal river. The property came with all stamp duty and legal fees covered, alongside £160,000 worth of furnishings and £250,000 in cash. Local estate agents estimate it could fetch around £4,500 per month if rented out.
Life-Changing Implications and Charitable Impact
Simon, who last visited Cornwall 25 years ago on a family holiday staying in a £40-a-night B&B, expressed disbelief at now having "the beach literally on our doorstep." The win has dramatically altered the couple's retirement plans, which previously involved "spreadsheets, timelines, the works" to save every penny for two decades. "All we really needed to do was win an Omaze house and become a multimillionaire, much easier," he quipped.
The couple, together for five years and married for two, now plan to spend more time in the Philippines, fly first class, and support Simon's parents financially. "My parents have helped me over the years, and it's going to be amazing to finally be in a position where I can help them back," he said.
As part of the draw, Omaze partnered with Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) Charity, guaranteeing a £1 million donation to help build a new world-leading Children's Cancer Centre. Louise Parkes, chief executive of GOSH Charity, emphasised the impact: "Thanks to the £1million donation from Omaze, we can provide children with cancer and their families the support they need at the toughest of times."
James Oakes, Omaze's president, noted that the platform has now raised over £100 million for good causes across the UK, highlighting how Simon's win contributes to vital charitable work while fulfilling a personal dream.
