Adrian Bayford, the winner of the Euromillions jackpot, is creating his own forest on his property. The 55-year-old former postman, who won £148 million alongside his then-wife Gillian in 2012, has recently planted 1,500 trees on the expansive grounds of his large country estate. The initiative, named Project WildRoots, aims to enhance sustainability across the 189-acre property. Bayford is now welcoming schools to visit the rewilding project that has been in progress for three years.
This eco-friendly endeavor is a part of Bayford’s commitment to environmental conservation, following the lead of well-known personalities like Ed Sheeran, Judi Dench, and Keith Richards, who have also established private woodlands on their estates. In the past, Bayford proposed the installation of 106 solar panels on a machinery barn to generate electricity for his £6.5 million estate in Cambridgeshire, which includes a small farm with an allotment, greenhouses, and livestock.
Moreover, Bayford has applied for planning permission to convert outbuildings on his Grade II-listed mansion into an educational facility for the local community, charities, and schools. This proposal has received approval from various council departments and Natural England, contingent on specific conditions such as the installation of bat boxes and owl boxes. The educational site is envisioned to immerse students in nature, offering sensory experiences to reduce anxiety and enhance focus.
The educational complex will feature studios, classrooms, event spaces, and areas for livestock, aiming to cater to diverse learning styles and support special educational needs. Despite not being a traditional school, the facility will provide educational resources and spaces for various learning requirements. Bayford has engaged with the community extensively during the planning process, seeking input from local councils, schools, and charities.
Bayford is known for hosting events at his expansive estate, including rock festivals and Christmas celebrations. In addition to his forest project, he has diversified his property by operating an Airbnb, establishing a vineyard, and selling Christmas trees. His lottery win in 2012 made him one of the UK’s most prominent winners, and his personal life has garnered media attention following his separation from Gillian and subsequent relationships with other women.
