The online gambling industry has been thriving lately throughout the UK due to the technological advancements that led to better privacy and security regulations, safer payment methods, and a wide variety of game choices.
From the latest statistics, it looks like online casinos contributed the most to the industry’s 2020 gross gambling yield of £14.22 billion.
Because this market is becoming increasingly popular amongst Brits, there is a tighter focus on responsible gaming. More and more companies are showing their support towards this initiative, wanting to ensure an immersive, but safe experience for each user.
The Gambling Commission in Great Britain, which is the regulatory body of all gambling operations taking place in the UK, has recently shared its strategy for the next three years. With a desire to remain flexible, the strategy highlights the steps needed to maintain a fair and safe gambling market for all individuals.
The Commission’s goal is to protect players and their personal data through the licenses they offer to gambling operators. In order to get one, they need to follow rigid, pre-established standards and consumer protection practices. Online casino experts are also lending a hand in keeping players safe, while ensuring they get the best services available. There are various options to choose from when it comes to online casinos, as seen on CasinoWings, who compile in-depth reviews of sites and providers, and thorough research is necessary to stay well-informed.
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An important initiative that is due to start this summer throughout the country, including in Manchester, was launched by Entain, the leading British betting, and gaming operator. The Advanced Responsibility and Care (ARC) player protection initiative is claiming to be the first in the industry to use technology to personalise protection for each player. The programme will be able to check the financial situation of each individual and then set stake limits according to the results.
This functionality has been rolled out across all 14 of Entain’s brands, including PartyCasino and Ladbrokes. PartyCasino is one of the world’s largest online casinos, a fully integrated platform with over 500 games on offer, ranging from traditional casino games like blackjack and roulette to the most modern video slots. Meanwhile, Ladbrokes is one of the most recognisable gambling names in the UK, with over 50 years experience and a growing online presence.
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The technology implemented in the ARC framework mixes artificial intelligence with big data. It collects existing customer data that is commercially available and combines it with behavioural indicators. The behavioural indicators involved in this process are fluctuations in stake levels, evidence of chasing losses, and erratic play. This way, the software would be able to predict an individual’s potential financial risk and provide the highest level of protection to the players that need it the most.
Overall, the online casino industry is doing a great job at promoting responsible gaming and improving its services so that players have a wide variety of resources. Technology, particularly AI, has been used for a while now to provide a safe space, as well as a personalised gaming experience. By embracing interactive technology and implementing it into its operational model, the industry has managed to evolve and maintain a strong customer base.
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Manchester cinemas are offering tickets to big blockbusters for just £4 this weekend
Emily Sergeant
You can watch some of the year’s biggest blockbusters for just £4 this weekend.
That’s because, to celebrate National Cinema Weekend (5-6 September), Vue has announced that it’ll be offering cut-price tickets to everything from the latest blockbusters and family favourites, to indie horrors and classic re-releases, so you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy the full cinematic experience this autumn.
Some of the highlights currently showing that you’ll be able to see for just £4 include summer hits like Spider-Man: Brand New Day, The Odyssey, and Toy Story 5, as well as the recent release of Ridley Scott’s latest film, The Dog Stars, starring Jacob Elordi.
Family favourites such as Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie, and Cars will also be screening over National Cinema Weekend.
Meanwhile, horror fans can also catch new releases Insidious: Out of the Further, and indie horror Leviticus, or see the year’s biggest horror hit, Obsession, if you haven’t already.
The best bit about the offer? It applies to every seat on every showing, all weekend long.
This means that film lovers can enjoy Vue’s biggest and comfiest seats, Ultra Lux, which are strategically positioned to give the best possible view of the big screen – with extra-wide armrests, back and leg rests that recline independently, a personal table for snacks and beverages, and a state-of-the-art wine cooler, all for just £4 each.
Mike Anton, General Manager at Vue Manchester Printworks, said it’s been ‘an incredible year’ for film, adding: “This National Cinema Weekend, we want to celebrate the big screen experience by giving back to our audiences.
“We encourage everyone to make the most of the celebration and enjoy a film at Vue.”
National Cinema Weekend returns for 2026 this Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September, and you can book tickets on the Vue website here.
Featured Image – Krists Luhaers (via Unsplash)
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Andy Burnham’s favourite Manchester pub, restaurant, neighbourhood and Sunday roast
Daisy Jackson
Andy Burnham’s favourite pub, restaurant, neighbourhood, and Sunday roast have been revealed – and the man’s got taste.
Old footage of now-PM Andy Burnham chatting to content creator Isaac Likes has been doing the rounds again, and while the interview dates back to before Andy left us and headed down to the big smoke, his Manchester recommendations still stand.
From his go-to neighbourhood and favourite pub to where he heads for a Sunday roast, and even the song he likes to play when he gets behind the decks, Burnham gave us a glimpse into his ideal Manchester day.
First up, there’s the Northern Quarter, which Burnham reckons has to be his favourite neighbourhood in the city.
He said: “Got to be the Northern Quarter. It’s the place where it’s all happening.”
When it comes to food, he singled out Firehouse, sitting on the edge of the Northern Quarter, as one of his favourite places to eat. He also gave a shoutout to its sister venue Ramona, where he’s been known to get behind the decks.
Andy said: “On the edge of the Northern Quarter, Firehouse is a place I love to go. Ramona Pizza, I’ve DJ’d there – if the mayor DJs there it’s gotta be alright.”
For a proper pint, Burnham’s choice is a little more traditional, saying his favourite pub is the ‘proper old school’ Peveril of the Peak.
The beautiful tiled pub was recently named the best in the UK, just days before its legendary landlady Nancy passed away.
When Sunday rolls around, Burnham said he has a couple of options up his sleeve. The Wharf in Castlefield gets a mention, as does Edinburgh Castle up in Ancoats.
The Peveril of the Peak pub in ManchesterThe Edinburgh CastleFirehouseSome of Andy Burnham’s favourite places in Manchester. Credit: The Manc Group
He said: “We love our gravy, we drink it by the pint in Manchester.”
Of course, no conversation with Burnham about Manchester would be complete without talking music.
Asked to name the best Manchester band of all time, he offered a few contenders – The Smiths, New Order, and, ultimately, The Stone Roses.
“The band I think are quintessentially Manchester is The Stone Roses. That was peak Manchester,” he said.