Uber-lievable win! Cash-strapped taxi driver bags £330,000 Spanish villa in competition {{favouriteCount}}

A taxi driver who was forced to sell his failing business and become an Uber driver is celebrating after bagging himself a £330,000 Spanish villa in an online competition.

Arshad Mahmood, from Middlesbrough, was lost for words when he discovered he had won the villa in Los Balcones courtesy of online competition specialist BOTB. The win comes at a particularly poignant time for Arshad, who was forced to sell his grocery shop business, leading him to become an Uber driver.

Arshad was at home when BOTB presenter Christian Williams appeared at his door and surprised him with the incredible news. “I cannot explain how I feel,” Arshad said. “This is life-changing! I was just about to go to work when I quickly entered the competition. It’s incredible.”

The fully-renovated villa features three spacious bedrooms, private pool and rooftop terrace, offering panoramic views. As part of the prize, Arshad also received free flights from the UK to Alicante for four people, twice a year for five years - a package valued at £12,000.

Christian video-called Arshad’s wife, Sabina, while she was at work to share the fantastic news. He even brought along a beginner’s Spanish language book to help the Mahmood family prepare for potential sunny Spanish adventures.

'I’ve been in a bit of a crisis the last few years'
Despite his excitement over the villa, Arshad admitted he’s considering the £240,000 cash alternative to help pay off loans. “I’ve been in a bit of a crisis the last few years,” he explained. “I opened a grocery shop, but it struggled, so I had to sell it, and then I became an Uber driver.”

Christian said: “A massive congratulations to Arshad for winning this gorgeous Spanish villa! After a tough few years, he’s earned this incredible prize. Just minutes from the best beaches, golf courses and amenities that Orihuela Costa has to offer, this villa isn’t just a dream home; it’s a lucrative rental opportunity too.

“Whether Arshad chooses to live the dream in Spain or take the cash, I know it will make a huge difference in his life.”

BOTB, which is one of the UK’s leading online car competition specialist, celebrated its 25th anniversary in spectacular style by launching its first-ever home giveaway. Founded by William Hindmarch in 1999, BOTB has given away £83m-worth of cars so far.

Christian added: “Reaching our 25th anniversary is an incredible milestone, and we wanted to celebrate in a way that reflects our mission to make dreams come true.”

Back to Homepage 16 Jan 2025