Jobs to go as bookie announces closures

Dozens of jobs in Airdrie and Coatbridge could be lost after national bookmaker William Hill announced plans to close hundreds of shops.

The firm said the move followed the UK Government’s decision to place a maximum stake of £2 on fixed-odds betting terminals.

The company, which has six shops across Monklands, will close around 700 of their 2300 UK premises before the end of the year, with 4500 of its 12,500 employees made redundant.

William Hill Airdrie shops are situated on Buchanan Street, Clarkston’s Connor Street and Varnsdorf Way in Petersburn.

Coatbridge’s stores are on Main Street, Clifton’s East Muiry hall Street and Whifflet’s Easton Place.

It has not been confirmed which shops will be affected, though staff have been made aware of the situation.

Recovering gambling addict Martin Paterson, who campaigned for the maximum stake on FOBTs to be reduced, lost “thousands upon thousands” on the machines.

Reacting to the news, the Coatbridge man said: “These are mini casinos on our high streets.

“It’s a shame people are losing their jobs but I’m sure they wouldn’t have had them in the first place if it wasn’t for the revenue the FOBTs made.

“There are far too many [bookmakers] in our area; there’s 22 in Coatbridge alone.”

A William Hill statement said:“The group will look to apply voluntary redundancy and redeployment measures extensively and will be providing support to all colleagues throughout the process.

“Subject to the outcome of the consultation process, shop closures are likely to begin before the end of the year.”

Jobs blow More than 4000 employees are to be made redundant