Mixed day for bookies as racing returns

BOOKMAKERS issued a mixed report as British racing returned from a 76-day absence, with most firms describing trade as brisk.

Newcastle staged the first meeting following the coronavirus shutdown, with Coral saying the 10-race card was “generally well received” by punters.

However, with bookmakers’ shops not due to reopen until June 15, spokesman David Stevens thought business was only “solid”.

He said: “It’s great to have UK racing back, and we’ve seen plenty of regular racing customers getting involved in the Newcastle action, while it’s also been a boost for the sport in terms of Levy contribution and streaming rights, which are a vital part of racing’s funding.

“However, betting shops remain shut across the country, so turnover on this first card back was solid rather than spectacular.

“Things certainly step up a gear in terms of quality later this week, with ITV coverage also a huge positive for sports fans starved of live action in recent weeks, so for those who enjoy an online flutter, there’s plenty to look forward to.”

Other firms were much more positive, but with a 22-1 winner of the opener and a 16-1 victor in the third race, the results were not in punters’ favour.

“It has been a busy trading day, but the results have been very bookmaker-friendly and punters will be hoping for a better day two,” said William Hill spokesman Rupert Adams.

Betfair spokesman Barry Orr also felt trade was strong, noting a “sizeable increase” in comparison to a usual Monday card at Newcastle.

He said: “In Newcastle, the Betfair exchange matched volumes were very strong with an average of around £1million matched per race.”