A Heart listener who recently learned she is in remission from cancer has won £1 million in the station’s Make Me A Millionaire competition.
Joy Haythorne, a 77 year old retired hairdresser from Botley in Hampshire, was crowned this year’s winner during Heart Breakfast with Jamie Theakston and Amanda Holden today.
The live final saw 10 finalists compete for the life changing prize, with the event streamed on Global Player, the Heart app and YouTube.
Just days before her win, Joy received the news that she is in remission following cancer treatment. Her late husband Bill also battled the disease before he died, and Joy says she now plans to donate a significant amount of her winnings to Macmillan Cancer Support, Cancer Research UK and Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.
Speaking after opening the winning safety deposit box live on air, Joy said: “Oh my days. I can’t believe that box said I’m a millionaire. I had to look six times.
“It is important to me to donate money to Macmillan because they helped me to help my hubby. And also to Cancer Research because without them I probably wouldn’t be here.”
She also said she wanted to support the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, adding that people never know when they might need its services. Joy plans to help her family and the close friends who supported her throughout her cancer treatment.
During the final, each contestant entered the vault and selected a sealed safety deposit box. One contained the £1 million prize, while the remaining nine finalists each walked away with £50,000.
Jamie Theakston said: “Amanda and I were absolutely delighted to celebrate with Joy as she became the UK’s newest millionaire. Knowing she’s also recently received the fantastic news that she’s in remission makes this an even more special moment for her.”
Amanda Holden added: “To hear she’s been told she’s in remission and now has also won Heart’s Make Me A Millionaire, is such a special moment. She’s a truly deserving winner.”
View this post on Instagram