Britain’s Bookies Join Jubilee Celebrations with Ascot Fundraiser

Britain’s bookmakers are joining in with the Queen’s Jubilee celebrations by donating all profits from the Britannia Stakes race at Royal Ascot to a number of British charities.

The race will take place at Royal Ascot on June 16, and the charities set to benefit include ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Sue Ryder, Ascot Racecourse Supports Community Fund, The Ivors Academy Trust, and Cotswold Riding for the Disabled.

Several of the biggest gambling operators who are members of the Betting and Gaming Council have signed up for the scheme. They include Flutter (Paddy Power, Betfair, Sky Bet), bet365, Entain (Ladbrokes, Coral), William Hill, BetVictor, Kindred (Unibet), Betway, Rank Group (Grosvenor Sport), Virgin Bet, Tote, Fitzdares and Ascot.

Each of the bookmakers has agreed to hand over all profits made from a win and each-way bets after levy and duties are deducted. The bookies have also agreed to make a donation to the charities if they fail to make a profit.

There was also a fundraising drive attached to last year’s Britannia Stakes, and £1.25 million raised.

I am absolutely delighted that the BGC’s largest members are once again raising vital funds at the Royal meeting for some of the country’s top charities, especially in this the year of the Queen’s Jubilee. Her Majesty’s passion for racing is known across the globe. It’s a sport that has the power to bring people together, and Royal Ascot is one of the great highlights of the calendar. Millions of people enjoy a flutter, and I’m proud that betting companies will donate their profits from one of Royal Ascot’s top races, the Britannia Stakes, to go towards some great charities. I am once again indebted to everyone at Royal Ascot for their continued support.

Michael DugherChief Executive of the BGC

Alastair Warwick, the Managing Director of Ascot Racecourse, added his thanks, “We are delighted that Royal Ascot will once again play a part in raising valuable funds for these deserving charities. I know this fantastic initiative from the betting industry is hugely appreciated, and the money will be used for some extremely worthwhile causes.”