Leading British bookmakers have recommitted to donating profits from the Britannia Stakes race, which will take place at Royal Ascot on June 20, to a number of UK charities.
This annual event, in its fifth year, involves betting industry giants such as Flutter (Paddy Power, Betfair, Sky Bet), Entain (Ladbrokes, Coral), Evoke (888, William Hill) and Kindred (Unibet) and Betway.
Additionally, Rank Group (Grosvenor Sport), Virgin Bet, LivescoreBet, Fitzdares, Star Sports, QuinnBet, Tote and Bet with Ascot are also involved.
These companies will donate all profits made from winning bets after deducting fees and taxes.
If they are unable to make a profit from the race, the bookmakers have committed to making a combined donation of £200,000 to be split between the nominated charities.
This amount is slightly less than the £250,000 donated the previous year. Since its inception, the initiative has raised almost £3 million.
Beneficiaries of charity campaign involving UK bookmakers
Donations will benefit a number of charities including Prostate Cancer UK, Ascot Racecourse Supports, Missing People, HEROS, GoRacingGreen and Churchill Lines Foundation.
Michael Dugher, interim CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), expressed his satisfaction with the initiative’s continuation.
“I am absolutely delighted that BGC members will once again be raising funds allocated at the Royal Meeting for some of the country’s leading charities.”
Laura Kerby, chief executive of Prostate Cancer UK, highlighted the importance of the awareness generated by the event.
“As a charity we want all racing fans to be aware of the risk of prostate cancer and major events like the Britannia Stakes help us raise awareness within the racing community.
The money raised will fund innovative research for a screening program, enabling early detection and saving lives.”
Impact of the initiative on various causes
Alastair Warwick, chief executive of Ascot Racecourse, commented: “We are immensely grateful to the members of the Betting and Gaming Board for this generous initiative which has raised so much money for worthy causes since 2020.”
Grace Muir, founder and CEO of HEROS, emphasized the importance of donations for continuing the institution’s work. “A donation of this type is extremely important and significant for HEROS. Allowing us to continue to build and grow the innovative and essential work we do in recycling and rehoming former racehorses, as well as developing the HERO program
Jo Youle OBE, chief executive of Missing People, thanked them for their continued support. “Our thanks to the Betting and Gaming Council and its members for this incredible support through the Britannia Stakes.
This support will help to help people in crisis, support their loved ones and find missing people.”
Supporting mental health and the military
Debbie Matthews, founder of GoRacingGreen, highlighted the positive impact of the additional funding. “This funding will help get as many people out on the track as possible, improving their wellbeing and increasing participation in racing.”
Roger Lewis, chairman of the Churchill Lines Foundation (CLF), highlighted the support for UK special forces. “The CLF exists to provide immediate and meaningful social support to unit members and their families. We are grateful to receive part of the proceeds from this year’s Britannia Stakes race.”
