Casino News Roundup for December 20: Global Gambling Industry Updates

This week’s casino news roundup begins with a festive favourite: the annual question of whether it will snow on Christmas Day in the UK.

Despite the uncertainty, bookmakers have already shortened the odds for a White Christmas. The Met Office has cautioned that while it's still early for precise predictions, snow is "likely" to grace the skies around the 25th of December.

Long-range forecast maps reveal a significant area of the UK, bathed in snow on Christmas Eve. 

Grahame Madge, a spokesperson for the Met Office, stated that technically, it's indeed likely to be a White Christmas due to the very low threshold of just one snowflake.

He further explained that most people's visions of a White Christmas, filled with snow-covered landscapes, do not align with the official definition, and this sight may not be a reality for the majority. 

In a significant development for the Thai gambling landscape, the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has announced an investigation into former national police chief Torsak Sukvimol, also known as "Big Tor," for alleged bribery and money laundering connected to the online casino network "BNK Master." 

This inquiry follows months of speculation surrounding misconduct within the Royal Thai Police (RTP) and internal rivalries.

Alongside Torsak, former deputy police chief Surachate Hakparn, nicknamed "Big Joke," faces similar allegations but has yet to be formally charged. 

Surachate previously lost a bid for police chief amid accusations of money laundering, he claimed the police raid on his home in September was orchestrated as a smear campaign. 

In related news, former prime minister Srettha Thavisin has been cleared by the NACC regarding the appointments of Torsak and Surachate, despite accusations of misconduct during the selection process. 

ISO Quality Services has relaunched its annual Bingo Box campaign to support the Worcester Foodbank, responding to a staggering 29 percent increase in demand that saw the charity assist over 14,000 individuals in the past year.

Running through late November, the bingo initiative encourages companies to contribute essential items and financial donations. This year, 18 businesses participated, donating 25 boxes of supplies and raising £590 in cash to help sustain the food bank's operations amid rising economic pressures. 

Genting Casinos UK has made headlines with its successful fundraising efforts for the CHIPS charity, raising an impressive £325,000 in 2024 through various activities, including sky dives, mountain hikes, and sponsored walks.

Paul Willcock, Chief Operating Officer, praised the commitment and creativity of the Genting team and the transformative impact these funds will have on the lives of young individuals supported by CHIPS.

Gordon Ramsay Burger at Flamingo Las Vegas is officially open for reservations via OpenTable. 

Following the success of previous locations, new restaurant boasts menu with signature items exclusive to the Flamingo, such as the Cluck Yeah GFC Sandwich and the Full English Breakfast Burger. 

The spacious 12,000-square-foot venue features a vibrant atmosphere with views of the Las Vegas Strip, making it a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts.

Plans have been submitted to transform a vacant shop in Chatham into an adult gaming and bingo venue, potentially increasing the area's gambling options. 

If approved, this venue would feature electronic bingo tablets and various gaming machines while creating seven full-time jobs. The proposal aims to rejuvenate a high street storefront that has been closed for 18 months. 

In an exciting turn of events, a Welsh man turned a £1 blackjack bet into a staggering £48,000 jackpot.

The player's remarkable luck in at Grosvenor Casino Liverpool Leo, during an evening outing with friends captivated fellow patrons and created a buzz in the casino.

The general manager, Ross Haslehurst, congratulated the winner.

Proposals have been submitted for the conversion of a former butchers in North Shields into an Admiral Casino venue, promising to create nine jobs while reinvigorating a vacant retail space. 

The application highlights the necessity for flexibility in the evolving high street landscape, pointing to a declining number of traditional retail businesses. If approved, this new gambling venue aims to enhance local foot traffic and economic vitality.

Casinos.com wishes you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!