How they fell foul of law

UNDER the Gambling Act 2005, no charge can be made for participation in a private game, such as at the one at the sheltered housing complex.

The law states: ‘It is irrelevant whether the charge is expressed to be voluntary or compulsory, particularly if customers are prevented from playing if they do not make the “voluntary” donation, or there is strong peer pressure to make the donation.’

The rules for non-commercial gambling events also ban ‘proceeds for private profit or gain’.

They could, however, be given to charity.

In order to keep playing for cash, the pensioners need to apply for a operating licence.