No income and no certainty: on-course bookmakers hit hard by racing's suspension

The suspension of racing during a peak time for turnover for
on-course betting has been described as a "disaster" by bookmakers, with fears many will be forced to look for new employment.

Turnover from betting on the track usually peaks between April and August thanks to a combination of big crowds and quality Flat racing, but the suspension of the sport has seen business grind to a halt with further concerns as to when meaningful crowds will be allowed to return even if the sport does resume behind closed doors.

Robin Grossmith, director of the Federation of Racecourse Bookmakers, believes the financial strain could see some older bookmakers forced to retire, with no source of secure income until crowds are permitted back at the track.