Key points:
- Over 50 MPs and peers are participating in the Betting and Gaming Council’s (BGC) Charity Bet initiative, with their Grand National bets affecting local charities
- A total of £50 will be placed on the race by each MP, with winnings going to their chosen charity, and a £250 donation if their horse doesn’t win
Over 50 MPs and peers are participating in the Betting and Gaming Council’s (BGC) Grand National Charity Bet Campaign, placing £50 ($64.82) bets at local bookmakers. Any winnings from these bets will be donated to a charity of each MP's choice, and a £250 donation is made to the charity if their bet does not win.
MPs have been invited to visit various bookmakers, including chains and local independents, to place their Charity Bet. The campaign aims to raise funds for charity in conjunction with the Grand National, which is watched by millions of viewers annually.
The campaign has raised over £15,000 for charitable causes in previous years, with this year's effort aiming to increase that total.
Good to know: The Grand National, taking place on Saturday April 5 at 4pm and is expected to conclude around 5:30pm
Betting and Gaming Council CEO Grainne Hurst stated: "The Grand National is one of the very few global sporting occasions with the power to bring the whole nation together, spurred on by the history, the heritage and the incredible spectacle it offers.
"Bookmakers are the beating heart of this country’s highstreets, generating jobs, taxes and crucial investment. They also provide community to millions of customers, many of whom will be visiting their bookie to witness the Grand National.”
