£161m lottery winner Colin dies at 71 BY KATHLEEN SPEIRS
BRITAIN’S record-breaking lottery prize winner Colin Weir has died aged 71.
The former television cameraman scooped the massive £161million Euromillions jackpot with then wife Chris in 2011.
The couple, from Largs in Ayrshire, split up earlier this year after 38 years of marriage.
A statement last night from Colin’s lawyers said: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Colin Weir early today after a short illness.
“No further comment will be made other than to offer sincere thanks to the staff of University Hospital Ayr
for their care and compassion.”
The death of die-hard Partick Thistle fan and dad-of-two Colin comes just weeks after he completed a takeover of his beloved club.
Last night a Partick Thistle statement read: “It is with deep sadness that we confirm that lifelong Jags fan Colin Weir passed away earlier today.
“On behalf of everyone at Partick Thistle, our love, thoughts and prayers are with the family and close friends of Colin at this most difficult time.”
Colin and Christine hit the headlines after making news of their win public in the summer of 2011.
While Colin previously worked as a TV cameraman, Christine, 62, was a psychiatric nurse. Together they raised their two children, Carly and Jamie, who are both believed to be in their early thirties.
The Weirs became well known in the North Ayrshire community by pumping money into local projects soon after their big win.
They donated to their local community football club, Largs Thistle and one year organised a Chritmas lights display.
They were catapulted into the Sunday Times Rich List above Beatle Ringo Starr and Sir Tom Jones.
Among the first items they bought following their amazing jackpot win was a checked sports jacket like one worn by Scotsport legend Arthur Montford.
They also bought £850,000 Knock House, a four-bedroom detached home in 23 acres of gardens and woodland on the outskirts of Largs.
Colin said at the time: “We didn’t want to go away and live on a small island with no contact with the people who are important to us.”