Michael Dugher Head of BGO Reminds Government of the Success of Cheltenham Festival

Head of the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) Michael Dugher has urged the Government who are due to release a new White Paper review of the Gambling Act, of the success of the 2022 Cheltenham Festival on its return.

£500m in Bets During The Festival

The four-day event held last week returned after missing out in 2021 due to the pandemic. Over 28 races, 250,000 racegoers bet approximately £500m during the event.

Dugher believes the success of the Cheltenham Festival should be considered when the government considers reforms to the Gambling Act. Speaking to Gambling Insider Michael Dugher said, “This year’s Cheltenham Festival has been a joy to behold, especially after last year when crowds were, regrettably, unable to attend. A record crowd on the first day set the tone for one of the greatest festivals ever.

“It was fantastic to see thousands of people, from every background, coming together in a way that only racing can do. This is, to enjoy a bet, a good time and magnificent sport that is jump racing. It’s also a timely reminder to the politicians and bureaucrats, miles away back in Westminster, not to do anything to spoil people’s enjoyment, or wreck this sport.”

Mr Dugher reiterates the need to raise standards in the industry and customers. However, it’s vital customers who attend such festivals as Cheltenham continue enjoying the sport and speak up regarding the Gambling Act review.

The “Right Balance”

The aim of the Gambling Act review is to find the “right balance” in protecting vulnerable people from gambling-related harm whilst allowing others to gamble as a leisure activity.

The White Paper should have already been released but it has now been postponed twice after its initial release towards the end of 2021, then early 2022, it’s expected to be released in May 2022.