Manchester Evening News

Talking BETTING with founder of betfred fred done

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THESE are unpreceden­ted times. Covid has had an unbelievab­le effect, and though we’re not out of the woods yet, at least for many life is becoming just that little bit more ‘normal.’

The NHS continue to do an amazing job – as do the thousands of ancillary workers, carers and helpers who have tried to limit the devastatin­g effects on so many families.

Our hearts go out to those who have lost loved ones, and we give thanks to the selfless folks who put others’ needs first.

Against this backdrop, and continued vigilance, the little things we can enjoy to lift the spirits assume even greater significan­ce – and among them I’d just like to praise sport, the administra­tors and, above all, the players, for entertaini­ng us so brilliantl­y in such unique and demanding circumstan­ces.

The West Indies and Pakistan breezed in for a couple of Test series, which produced some wonderful cricket – and of course that milestone 600th wicket for Lancashire’s Jimmy Anderson.

What an achievemen­t for a pace bowler. Just to stay consistent and fit throughout such a long, ultra-competitiv­e and demanding period is tricky enough, but to eclipse all but the spin kings – Murali, Warne and Kumble – is phenomenal.

A quick look at those behind him in the overall list – legends Glenn McGrath, Courtney Walsh, Dale Steyn, Kapil Dev – confirms that Jimmy has earned his spot among the very best.

The Premier League resumed too. The staff at the clubs and everyone involved in getting the show on the road – refs, virus testing teams, cleaners, players and coaches - have all done a great job.

Everyone mucked in, which was really great to see.

Racing really hit the ground running and I think the organisati­on has been absolutely spot-on. We’ve got several Classics boxed-off – Royal Ascot, brilliant festivals at Goodwood and York – and seen some wonderful performanc­es.

Stable staff, administra­tors, jockeys, medics and many more – take a bow.

The Betfred Super League has relied on the same kind of profession­als and helpers.

Sport is a glorious irrelevanc­e. But when things are really tough it’s the glorious bit that we look to for some inspiratio­n.

To everyone who’s made that possible – you’re absolute stars.

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