ators William Hill are to withdraw their online betting and gaming services from the Chinese market “for the foreseeable future” due to “regulatory reasons”.

As of midday on 19 August, all accounts of Chinese residents will be suspended, with bettors not able to use the accounts to access Hills’ online sportsbook or gaming rooms.

Bettors will however be able to check their account and withdraw any outstanding balance at any time, unless otherwise notified in the future.

A company spokesperson put the development down to “regulatory reasons beyond our control”.