THE UK’s biggest bookmakers have donated thousands of pounds to charity in the wake of a 50/1 Grand National winner.
Prior to the race, a handful of MPs, including Alex Davies-Jones and Alok Sharma, were invited to place charity bets organised by the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC).
In the wake of Noble Yeats’s 50/1 success under Sam Waley-Cohen, who retired from the saddle immediately after the race, BCG members, including William Hill and Paddy Power, each donated £250 to every nominated charity.
Michael Dugher, the BGC’s chief executive, said: “Yet again the Grand National delivered, a brilliant race that was enjoyed by millions of punters across the UK.”
It was the first time in three years that betting shops were able to be open for the Grand National.
Dugher added: “Betting shops are a huge employer and do so much to support hard-pressed high streets and local economies, it was great to see MPs from across the political divide visiting bookies across the country all in aid of good causes.
“This past weekend was a showcase for horse racing and betting, we want the Government to recognise the popularity of betting, its unique place in our national culture, and ensure they address punter’s concerns over extra checks and protect jobs in the upcoming White Paper.”
A peak audience of 7.5 million watched Saturday’s big race, while in the region of 13 million bets were placed – Sky Bet alone took 1.2 million.
Sky Bet’s Michael Shinners said: “This year we had 1.2 million customers bet with us on the Grand National, that’s within a thousand or so of 2021. Essentially, we had the same amount as last year, which we’re pleased with.”
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
- Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
- Never chase their losses
- Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
- Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
- Gamble Aware – www.begambleaware.org
For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.
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