Betting shops can be magical places - here's to those who make them that way

The first bet you place in a betting shop is something you will always remember. Much like ordering your first alcoholic drink or the first time you sit in the driver's seat of a car.

For me it was in the summer of 1990 when, slightly underage, I placed a 10p Lucky 15 (total outlay £1.65 after 10 per cent tax) in a small, smoke-ridden Coral shop. Alas, the selections all lost but the experience wasn't lost on me and I was soon back for more.

For those who are part of my generation, as well as those older than me, betting shops were an integral part of the racing experience. You would know by heart where all the firms were located, how long it would take to get to each one and who worked in each shop. Later in life, when I started working in a bookies, I came to get to know the local punters who form the small communities unique to each shop.