Nugent will succeed Clive Hawkswood, who has been chairman since the affiliate organisation's launch in 2019.

Nugent said: "I’m pleased to be able to represent our industry during the crucial next phase in the development of policy and regulation of the gambling sector.

"Our focus will be on education and lobbying and engaging constructively with the Government and interested politicians.

"Affiliates play a key role in providing enjoyable and safe environments for consumers – facts which we want to see recognised in any new laws governing our industry."

Hawkswood, who has urged the industry to welcome the UK's Gambling Act review (with the RAiG fully welcoming it too), had already previously advised the board he would be stepping down.

He said: "During the Autumn I advised the RAiG board I intended to step down as its chair. Given my other commitments it was clear to me I would not have the time to do full justice to the role once the Government’s gambling review got into full swing.

"We have used the intervening period to address RAiG’s work programme for next year with the pending review in mind. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved at RAiG who, from the first day, have been extremely helpful and supportive."