Edward Putman, 53, is charged with fraudulently claiming £2.5million lottery payout 

A multi-millionaire was today told he will face prosecution for allegedly faking a National Lottery ticket that handed him £2.5million nine years ago. 

Edward Putman, 53, from Kings Langley, Hertfordshire, has been charged with fraud by false representation.

His prosecution follows a three-year investigation by the serious fraud squad. 

The National Lottery paid him the life-changing sum in 2009 after he came forward as the winner of a unclaimed ticket.

The winnings were paid out – but the ticket allegedly did not have a working bar code.

Putman will appear in court next month and if he is convicted he could be forced to repay the seven-figure sum under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Today Hertfordshire Police said in a statement: ‘A man has been charged after an investigation into an alleged lottery fraud.

‘Edward Putman, 53, was charged with fraud by false representation following an alleged fraudulent claim of a lottery prize.

Putman (pictured left and right) will appear in court next month and if he is convicted he could be forced to repay the seven-figure sum under the Proceeds of Crime Act

‘The incident occurred in 2009 when a claim was made for an outstanding lottery prize. A lottery ticket was submitted and the prize of £2.5m was paid out.

‘In 2015 an investigation was opened by Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Serious Fraud and Cyber Unit, after evidence came to light that the claim was not genuine.

‘Mr Putman has been released on bail to appear at St Albans Magistrates Court on October 16.’ 

Camelot was fined £3million over his payout and spokesman said today: ‘We’re aware that an individual has been charged.

‘However, while we appreciate that some people may want to know further detail, it wouldn’t be appropriate for us to comment at this stage, given that the matter is now the subject of criminal proceedings.’.