A Merritt couple are half a million dollars richer after a big lotto win.

Mitch and Florence Wilkinson matched all seven numbers in the Maxmillions draw to split and win $500,000 from the January 3rd Lotto Max draw. “We bought a few more tickets than normal because we knew the jackpot was $70 million,” says Mitch. “Even with $500,000 we were still shaking holding the big cheque!”

Mitch has been working for 31 years as a snow plow operator on the Coquihalla Highway. “It’s been a real challenge on the Coquihalla over the years, keeping the roads clear and drivers safe and even though it’s tough, I still enjoy doing what I do.”

He says he isn’t planning to retire, but he admits the lottery win makes early retirement look a little enticing. The couple plans to put most of their winnings in savings, but do plan to use some of it on home renovations and early retirement.

The winning ticket was purchased at Black’s Pharmacy in Merritt.