Data analysis from Worldpay suggests online gambling is going to drastically increase in the UK during the Cheltenham Festival.

Worldpay data has predicted online bookies will see a huge upturn in wagers during this period. Last year, online operators saw a 49% increase in bets placed during the festival compared to the previous week.

Last year, according to the data, there was a huge amount of increased activity in betting via mobile devices between 1.30pm and 3.30pm. This is when the races are shown live on ITV in the UK, with only the last race not featuring.

Despite more bets being placed online, however, last year revealed the value of bets averaged £91 ($118) on the high street, compared to £40 online.

Steffan Jones, Vice President for Gaming at Worldpay, said: “Horseracing is one of the most popular betting activities in the UK, and with over nine million people betting online in 2017, this figure is only set to rise.

“For digitally savvy punters mobile devices enable them to place bets anytime, anywhere; so it’s important for operators every part of the journey makes it as enjoyable as possible.

“It’s not just about ensuring adding funds is frictionless; in this age of online expediency, fast payouts are equally important.”