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Wednesday, February 03, 2010
This week I visited the flagship Ladbrokes shop in Winchcombe Street to learn more about the betting and gaming industry, the issues affecting the sector and its employees – who number thousands - and to take part in a charity bet. With Cheltenham Racecourse up the road, and this one of the busiest Ladbrokes shops in the country, I thought it a good idea to meet those closely associated with the industry.
Ladbrokes remains the world’s largest retail bookmaker, with over 2,100 shops employing 14,000 people in the UK alone. However, the industry has suffered from increasing tax levels, under-regulated offshore competition and misperceptions held by many who may never have visited a betting shop. Surprisingly it was very relaxed and everyone was welcoming and friendly.
 I was shown the wide variety of betting and gaming activities available, met the staff and customers and asked questions about responsible gambling procedures and the company’s community and charitable work, which represents quite a significant portfolio.
I’m not as a rule a betting man but I was given a free £50 bet which I placed on a horse named ‘Katchit’ to win this year’s Cheltenham Champion Hurdle on Thursday 18th March (Ladies Day). With odds of 33/1, the bet would win £1700 if it romps home, and I’d donate all winnings to The National Star College at Ullenwood, whose fundraising efforts I fully support.
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