Plymouth man wins £85,000 Nissan GT-R a week before Christmas

A self-proclaimed car lover has struck gold this week after winning a top-of-the-range Nissan GT-R worth £85,000 thanks to dream car competition, BOTB.

Craig Vrettos from Plymouth was surprised on Tuesday morning by BOTB presenter Christian Williams.

“I couldn’t really believe it to be honest,” said Craig. “I’ve been close to winning before but wasn’t sure if I ever would.”

The contract manager started entering the competition online about a year ago and has been playing ever since.

“I started entering when I saw the stands in the airports and thought I’d try my luck.”

Petrolhead Craig, 59, has had a longtime love affair since being given his father’s 3.0L Ford Grenada at the age of 17.

“You definitely couldn’t have a 17-year-old drive that now,” Craig laughs.

“I’ve had quite a few cars over the years, an Audi Q7, a VXR - I do like fast cars.”

Craig said that his wife of nine years, Claire, had already decided what colour the car would be, although he was unsure if he’d let her take the car for a spin.

“She’s had her mind made up since she found out - we’re going for black, like our current Audi - I might let her take it out on a clear road I suppose.”

Craig also said he would like to take the car for a drive around Wales as well as Plymouth.

“Plymouth is a lovely city but I reckon it would be nice to go for a drive through the hills.”

Since being founded in 1999 by William Hindmarch, BOTB has given away more than £30m worth of prizes.

Listed on the stock market, BOTB has high-profile stands at airports, as well as online at BOTB.com.

Christian Williams, who surprises winners weekly all over the world, said he was thrilled to see Craig’s reaction.

“I’m so glad we got to surprise Craig ahead of Christmas and I hope he and Claire have the best time zipping around Barry Island,” said Christian.

“We hope the Vrettos family has a wonderful Christmas and enjoys the car!”

To see Craig’s reaction, head over to www.botb.com