Hoare is understood to have been released under a life licence

Iorworth Hoare, originally from Leeds, was serving life after being convicted of attempted rape in 1989.

He was on release from Leyhill open prison, in South Gloucs, when he bought his winning ticket last summer.

Under Home Office guidelines, prisoners on temporary release from jail are allowed to play the lottery.

He should give every single penny of that money to rape crisis organisations Julie Bindel, feminist writer

Hoare, 52, was also jailed several times for a string of sex attacks, including rape, during the 1970s and 1980s.

He is understood to have been released on strict conditions under a life licence.

The conditions mean Hoare will always have to meet probation requirements and could be taken back into custody if he breaches his parole terms.

Hoare was one of three winners to share a �21m Lotto Extra jackpot on 7 August 2004.

Compensation claims

Some victim support groups expressed anger at the win, saying the money should be given to rape victims.

Writer Julie Bindel, a campaigner on violence against women, said at the time: "He has made a dreadful impact on somebody's life and he should show he has seen the errors of his ways.

"He should give every single penny of that money to rape crisis organisations."

Retired DCI Mick Grubb, who arrested Hoare in 1966, backed the calls, saying he could not think of a "less deserving" person to win �7m.

Despite the outcry, the Home Office said it could not stop him collecting the prize.