The first time I can recall declaring I was a compulsive gambler was during a phone conversation with the bank about an increase in my overdraft limit. I had previously honestly declared the extent of my indebtedness (six or so maxed-out credit cards). The bank unexpectedly offered me a consolidation loan with a surplus £3,000. “That’s for you,” the loan officer said when I told him the total offered was more than I needed.
I read about Luke Ashton’s suicide with profound sadness (‘Gambling controlled him’: inquest into man’s death to look at Betfair role, 11 June). I haven’t had a bet for more than 19 years, but his story might have been mine. One thing that might help gamblers would be a ban on the use of credit. If gamblers had to deposit funds with bookmakers in advance, it might rein in out-of-control behaviour.
Gerry Brett
Jianye, Nanjing, China
