When Stacey Pugh won a stunning £6 million country estate through an Omaze prize draw, she imagined it would be the start of an idyllic new chapter. Instead, the former Miss Wales finalist found herself facing a property nightmare that left her unable to even access her grand prize.
The Dream That Turned Sour
Stacey Pugh, who had previously competed in the Miss Wales competition, thought her fortunes had changed forever when Omaze announced she'd won the magnificent Marston House in Cheshire. The luxury property, complete with indoor swimming pool and sprawling gardens, promised a life of comfort and elegance.
However, the reality proved starkly different from the promotional glamour. "We haven't even been given the keys," Stacey revealed, expressing her frustration at being unable to properly inspect or enjoy the property she technically owned.
A Property in Disarray
The issues with the prize home were immediately apparent:
- The once-manicured gardens had become an overgrown wilderness
- Trees and foliage had been torn down, creating an unsightly mess
- The indoor swimming pool was filled with debris and unusable
- Access to the property remained restricted despite the win
"It's just heartbreaking to see such a beautiful property in this state," Stacey commented, highlighting the gap between the competition's promises and the actual condition of the prize.
The Omaze Controversy Continues
This isn't the first time Omaze has faced criticism over their multi-million pound property giveaways. The company, which raises money for charity through its prize draws, has previously been accused of misleading entrants about the true nature of their winnings.
Many winners have discovered that the "life-changing" prizes come with substantial financial burdens, including maintenance costs, council tax, and insurance premiums that can run into thousands of pounds monthly.
What's Next for the Winners?
Stacey and her family now face the difficult decision of what to do with their problematic prize. While the property represents enormous potential, the current condition and ongoing costs make it more of a burden than a blessing.
The situation raises serious questions about the reality behind dream home competitions and whether winners are truly prepared for the responsibilities that come with multi-million pound properties.
