owing an agreement between the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) and the UK Tote, UK customers of Betfred, Coral and Ladbrokes will be able to place bets on the Hong Kong’s huge pari-mutuel pools.

Although fixed-odds betting will not be available, the operators will accept bets both online and in betting shops. SIS will distribute the live broadcasts.

HKJC’s Executive Director Richard Cheung comments: “Given its tremendous legacy in the sport of horseracing, it is a great pleasure to welcome the UK to our expanding list of co-mingling jurisdictions.

“While we are certain that UK racing fans will be attracted to the world-class racing, especially with our Longines Hong Kong International Races looming on Sunday, December 11, our midweek racing, often at Happy Valley, is a perfect midday option for customers.”

HKJC’s co-mingling director George Irvine expressed his expectation to make more agreements with UK operators in the coming months: "A High Street presence is a must in the UK market and this agreement will enable some of the world's finest racing fans to participate in the excitement of Hong Kong's competitive racing.

"This deal ensures Hong Kong racing will be available in thousands of retail betting outlets while future agreements we are finalising will enable later delivery direct to millions of UK households.

"Meanwhile, the placement of Hong Kong race cards in the Racing Post will reliably inform punters in a familiar style."