A Wirral railway guard who left his job after winning the National Lottery hoped to make commuters lucky when he returned to his former workplace.

Ben Woods, from New Ferry, scooped £2.5m in 2004 and immediately handed in his notice at Port Sunlight station.

He returned to give commuters an extra special treat by paying for their fares – and handing over a lottery ticket for Wednesday night's draw at the same time – hoping it is blessed with his good fortune.

The visit came about after research revealed that drivers were among the country’s luckiest.

According to the National Lottery’s top secret winners database 1,500 drivers have been big prize winners and 193 driver millionaires created since The National Lottery began.

Ben said: "I raise my glass to all drivers, whether winners or not. Now knowing that so many of my colleagues have struck it rich on the National Lottery I can only assume that we are being rewarded with good luck for all of our hard work.

“I loved every minute of job on the railway, but winning the lottery just gave me so many choices and to be able to give up work and spend more time with my family was just a fantastic position to be in.”

Among those who were bought tickets by Ben was Patrick Kot, who said: “I didn’t expect to be bought a ticket when I turned up at the station this morning. It was a nice surprise.

“I only hope I'm as lucky on Wednesday."

Among the professions celebrating their success are nurses and builders.

A National Lottery spokeswoman said: "Many congratulations drivers everywhere. You are officially a lucky profession.

"It's amazing to see so many winners from so many professions celebrating their big win. 

"The joy and amazement is the same whether it is a driver, builder or chef staring at a giant cheque and we want to recognise each and every amazing winner."