Bookie’s online winner

A SURGE in internet betting helped GVC cushion the impact of sluggish trade on the high Street.

The Ladbrokes owner said it was expecting doubledigit growth in its online business this year, after it posted a 17pc rise in revenue in the first quarter.

Its overall revenues rose 8pc, with UK retail revenues staying flat while european shops saw 2pc growth. Chief executive Kenny Alexander, 50, said: ‘We continue to see good growth across all major online brands and territories and we remain very confident of achieving our target.’

GVC, meanwhile, said it was expecting record numbers of bets to be placed on the Grand National race at Aintree today.