By Sarah Smithon Monday, 19 Jun 2006 People who feel they have a problem with gambling are being offered support by GamCare, a national charity that promotes responsible gambling.
Although most people enjoy betting harmlessly, there is a minority for whom it becomes a problem and GamCare works to provide them with a support network.
The charity is involved with various local authorities to provide helplines and face-to-face counselling services for those that need them.
Middlesbrough, Southend and Leicester are among those councils to work with GamCare on the initiative.
The Gambling Commission's chief executive, Jenny Williams, said: "While the majority of gamblers enjoy this pastime harmlessly, a minority develop a gambling problem. We therefore welcome these new services which will help problem gamblers at a local level in Middlesbrough, Southend and Leicester."
GamCare's chairman, Anthony Jennens, said he was "delighted" to be involved with the councils.
Meanwhile, Brits are expected to bet a staggering £1 billion at bookmakers over the course of the football World Cup in Germany.
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