Amateur artist Richard Stephenson has plenty of reasons to paint the town red this week, after scooping a £25,000 lottery win.

The 62-year-old of West End, Melksham, was shocked when former Welsh international rugby player Scott Quinnell turned up on his doorstep with a cheque from the People’s Postcode Lottery.

He said: “I know a lot of people say this but it’s the absolute truth I have never won anything before in my life. It’s just a bit overwhelming.

“I had mentioned to my wife Stephanie that I was thinking of signing up to play but I don’t think she had any memory of this, so when the guys turned up I definitely think she was more shocked than me.”

The former NHS worker took early retirement last year, when he discovered a new passion for painting. Now with his winnings in the bank he is hoping to take his new hobby further.

He said: “I would love to start exhibiting some of my art work but it’s quite expensive, so this money will enable me to have my work featured in galleries across the country, which is something I have dreamt of for a long time.”

Former number eight Quinnell, who is an ambassador for the People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “It was absolutely great to meet Richard and his lovely wife Stephanie.

“I think the cheque was a big surprise to both of them but it’s great to hear that Richard will be able to fulfil his dream by putting some of the money towards his artwork.”

The nationwide lottery, which started in 2005, has raised over £38 million for good causes across the country.

For more information see www.postcodelottery.co.uk