An elderly couple in the UK who won a AU$15.5 million lottery jackpot have used their fortune to purchase a stunning 15.5-acre forest, creating a natural playground for their grandchildren and the local community.
Ted Newton, 84, and his wife Marilyn, 80, bought the expansive woodland in East Kent to provide their grandchildren with the opportunity to explore nature, run free, and appreciate the great outdoors.
But their generosity didn’t stop with their family – the couple soon opened the forest to the wider community, welcoming local schools, a village crèche, and youth groups in need of outdoor space.
The forest, now a beloved community hub, has even been made available to a local Sea Scouts group led by the couple’s son, Steve. The Scouts, many from one of the most disadvantaged areas in the county, now have access to a safe and exciting place to camp, hike, and develop essential life skills.
Marilyn explained their motivation for purchasing the land, saying, “We moved here so our grandchildren could have a place to run around and explore. Little did we know that our woodland would become a haven for so many children and young people in our community.”
The Newtons have since hosted over 30 events for the Sea Scouts, giving young people who might not otherwise have the chance the opportunity to engage with nature.
“With money tight for so many families, it can be difficult for the Scouts to afford camping trips,” Marilyn said. “This means some children miss out on learning vital survival skills, team-building experiences, and, most importantly, the chance to connect with the natural world.”
Steve, the Sea Scout leader, says he has seen remarkable transformations in the children who visit the woodland. “It never fails to amaze me how kids unfamiliar with the outdoors initially approach it with caution but quickly grow in confidence.
They return time and again, experiencing everything from Duke of Edinburgh hikes to learning how to cook over an open fire.”
The woodland, which even has its own postcode, has been described by the Newtons as their greatest joy since winning the lottery in 2009. Marilyn said, “When the Scouts are here, you can hear their laughter ringing through the trees.
It gets louder as the camp progresses and they grow in confidence. We love seeing the forest come alive with young adventurers.”
Beyond the Scouts, the Newtons have welcomed school groups, dog walkers, and even nursery children to explore the forest, ensuring that as many people as possible can benefit from the natural beauty of the land.
“Everything we do here is about giving young people the chance to have fun without relying on screens or technology,” Steve added. “They work together, problem-solve, and engage with the environment in a way that will stay with them for life.”
For Ted and Marilyn, their woodland represents more than just a financial investment—it’s a legacy of adventure, learning, and community spirit that will continue to enrich young lives for generations to come.
