Racing to monitor new TV pubs link.
THE satellite broadcaster BSkyB is to launch a pubs and clubs television channel on August 1, initially for in-house quizzes, but an opening for horseracing has not been ruled out in time.The new channel is to be offered within existing Sky subscriptions and was first mooted over a year ago.
Ian Holden, a spokesman for BSkyB, said yesterday: "There are two formats, one for landlords, managers and staff for training and education purposes, and one for front-of-house, the customers.
"Initially it will be focused on quizzes, including at some point interactive quizzes, but it will develop over a period of time."
When asked about the prospect of racing featuring on the new service, Holden said: "The door is always open as this is the first channel of its type. We've got to test the water, but the one big problem is obviously the gambling issue.
"That is a big issue for licensees as clearly any offence for illegal gambling can have a serious knock-on effect."
The BHB has promoted the idea of widening the betting environment from licensed betting shops into pubs and clubs, but this has met with stern opposition from bookmakers, and it also needs legislation.
Some 40,000 pubs and clubs take BSkyB services primarily for football and other Sky Sports events, and The Racing Channel is to watch developments with interest.
Spokesman Stuart McTiernen said: "It could be a very exciting opportunity if we are a natural fit into that environment."
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| Title Annotation: | Sports |
|---|---|
| Publication: | The Racing Post (London, England) |
| Date: | May 7, 1999 |
| Words: | 246 |
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