Brit EuroMillions winner Colin Weir, 71, dies after short illness after scooping £161million jackpot in 2011

ONE of Britain's biggest ever lotto winners who bagged a £161million EuroMillions jackpot has died aged 71.

Colin Weir's lawyers confirmed "with deep sadness" that he died today after a short illness - eight years after winning big with his ex-wife.

A spokeswoman said: "It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Colin Weir early today after a short illness.

"We would ask for privacy for his family and friends at this distressing time.

"No further comment will be made other than to offer sincere thanks to the staff of University Hospital Ayr for their care and compassion.";

Colin and ex Christine, who took home the EuroMillions British record in 2011, had been married for 38 years before separating.

Earlier this year a statement on behalf of the couple said: “They are applying for divorce amicably.”

And shortly afterwards, the Ayrshire couple were granted a divorce.

Pals said it was an "open secret" they had drifted apart following their record-breaking win in 2011.

Retired STV cameraman Colin and former psychiatric nurse Chris became the 22nd richest people in Scotland after their colossal £161,653,000 win in July 2011.

RECORD BREAKING WIN

They were catapulted into the Sunday Times Rich List, but shunned an expensive holiday to go to Brighton where they decided how to spend their cash.

The dad-of-two revealed one of the first items they bought was a checked sports jacket like one worn by Scotsport legend Arthur Montford.

They also snapped up £850,000 Knock House, a four-bedroom detached home in 23 acres of gardens and woodland on the outskirts of Largs.

Colin said at the time: “We didn’t want to go away and live on a small island with no contact with the people who are important to us.”

In 2013 the couple set up The Weir Charitable Trust and made a donation to a community football club in Largs.

They also invested in Partick Thistle Football Club which led to the youth set-up being rebranded the Thistle Weir Youth Academy, and a section of their Firhill Stadium being named the Colin Weir Stand.

In November of this year Colin secured a majority shareholding at the club and promised to give the 55 per cent shareholding directly to a fans group by March 2020.

Colin said: “I have been a Thistle fan since I was a boy and spent many hours at Firhill — some more enjoyable than others.

“Chris and I are delighted to be part of the effort to help the club achieve financial security — no mean feat for any Scottish club today.

“We also support the establishment of Partick Thistle Football Club Trust to give fans a greater say and were pleased to help get it off the ground.”

Chris gave the club £750,000 in 2013 to kickstart the Thistle Weir Youth Academy.