Bingo duty axe 'vote of confidence' in sector

The operator of a bingo hall in East Sussex has described the decision to get rid of duty on the game as "welcome news".

Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced in Wednesday's budget that duty would be abolished on bingo from April 2026, having previously been levied at 10%.

The Godden Organisation recently opened the Deluxe Bingo Hall in Hastings and said the move was a "vote of confidence" in the sector.

The body which represents the industry has predicted the change will lead to more clubs opening, particularly in coastal communities.

William Chilcott, head of communications at the Godden Organisation, told BBC South East: "It was very welcome news for a sector that's had a couple of difficult years with rising energy costs, employment costs and a real vote of confidence from this government in our sector.

"It's reflective of the unique community bingo is and how important a role it can play in towns like Hastings."

Miles Baron, chief executive of the industry body the Bingo Association, said he was "absolutely delighted" at the announcement, and said it would be a particular boost to halls in coastal communities.

"The industry has been trying really hard to reinvent itself since Covid but this will really accelerate the process," he said.

"We're going to see new clubs, investment in modern premises and we're going to see more and more bingo clubs."

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.