Bookmakers urge rethink on 'crazy' on-course ban on cash betting

Bookmakers battle against a squally shower before the opening raceWincanton 7.3.19 Pic: Edward Whitaker

Bookmakers: many in the industry lack card-only equipmentCredit: Edward Whitaker

Those involved in the "crazy" decision not to allow cash betting at a cancelled trial at Goodwood on Saturday in any forthcoming pilots with crowds back on racecourses have been urged to rethink that stance.

The Federation of British Bookmakers says the guideline makes no sense against the backdrop of high-street shops continuing to trade with bank notes.

As many as 5,000 people were due to attend a trial on the fifth and final day of Glorious Goodwood last Saturday, but a recent spike in Covid-19 cases meant it was cancelled, while the easing of other restrictions was also postponed by prime minister Boris Johnson.

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James BurnLambourn correspondent

Published on 4 August 2020inNews

Last updated 17:37, 4 August 2020

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