A lorry driver from Watford who won £1 million on the lottery quit his job the same day.

Simon Beach said he was looking forward to spending more time on the golf course after finding out he had a winning ticket in Friday's Euromillions draw last week.

The 49-year-old, who always believed he was going to be a lottery winner, won £1 million and a millionaire experience which was a South African safari.

"I was making myself a cup of coffee on Saturday morning when I discovered I’d won the Millionaire Raffle," Mr Beach said.

"I’d like to say I couldn’t believe it but actually, I’ve been expecting this win for 21 years, right since the first lottery draw took place.

"I said as much when I rang Camelot to confirm the win."

Mr Beach, who lives at home with his parents in Bushey Mill Lane, bought his winning ticket in North Bushey Store in Bushey Mill Lane.

He said one of the first people he shared the news with was a good friend who lives in Las Vegas.

Allowing for the time difference, he sent a text message that read: "by the time you wake up, Beach is already a millionaire".

As primary carer for his elderly parents, Mr Beach chose the cash alternative to the millionaire experience, giving him a total of £1,054,720.

Mr Beach said he decided to quit his job as a HGV lorry driver after struggling to juggle long-distance driving with managing the home and care for his parents, both of whom have extensive health problems.

He said: "My mum has had four strokes while dad is on dialysis meaning he is in and out of hospital a lot.

"The last few years have been really tough trying to keep the home together, bring in an income and keep on top of mum and dad’s care while working long hours and being away from home.

"Thanks to a little combination of numbers that has all changed and things can get a little easier.”

Celebrating his win at Vicarage Road yesterday, Mr Beach said he was looking forward to attended more games.

He added: "My dad first took me to see Watford play in 1967 when I was just four months old.

"I’ve spent many happy hours following them at home and away but with work, and mum and dad’s health, it’s been harder to get along to games.

"Knowing that I can pay for the right care for my parents and that I don’t have to worry about work any more, I intend to spend plenty of time cheering them on again, when I’m not golfing that is."