Gambler John prepares to scoop book and movie deals after £2m Las Vegas poker prize

IT WAS a win that stunned the world of poker in the gambling capital of the world.

When John Hesp, right, paid £10,000 to enter the World Series of Poker in Las Vegas, he never expected to turn “accidently” into an international star of the game.

The 64-year-old caravan salesman from Bridlington came fourth out of 7,000 players to bring home $2.6m – about £2m – in July.

Now, Mr Hesp, who shot to fame in his distinctive jacket, Panama hat and unorthodox playing style, has revealed he in negotiations for both a movie and book deal.

He said: “I’m just a regular guy from Bridlington who wasn’t really known outside of the town when I flew out to Las Vegas.

“The story that has unfolded, it’s one of those most unbelievable fairytale stories that happens in life. Someone that goes from nothing to the top, brushing shoulders with some of the biggest names in poker.” There has already been speculations from family and friends about who should depict Mr Hesp in the movie, with suggestions ranging from Sean Connery to Tom Hanks. “For me I’d pick George Clooney, but this is all a bit of fun,” he said. The grandfather-of-seven said he has formally received the offer for the movie, but his solicitor is currently analysing the proposal as he also has an upcoming book deal.

Mr Hesp said journalist and publisher Judith Broadbent is looking to write the book and a company in London is interested in publishing it.

Prior to his trip to Las Vegas during the summer, the biggest sum of money which Mr Hesp had won in one sitting was £700 at Napoleons Casino in Hull.