Press Releases

Turf TV signs data deal with BTC

Turf TV, the Licensed Betting Office (LBO) television pictures supplier, announced today that it has signed a deal to licence its data to the Bookmakers Technology Consortium (BTC), a grouping of 225 independent LBOs.

Under the terms of the deal, BTC members who use the Finsoft system will be able to take Turf TV’s bulk data feed from PA Sport as part of the BTC’s integrated database. The result of this will be that Turf TV’s data will be available in their EPOS systems.

Adrian Ford, managing director of Turf TV, said: “Overcoming the various issues facing LBOs who are receiving two picture and data services is a key objective of mine. This announcement is, I hope, just the start of that process.

“Initially, we are only talking about data for our virtual racing product. And, of course, this is only relevant for those BTC members who are customers of Turf TV. But it provides the starting point for further integration and is also a signal to our independent LBO customers that we are fully focussed on supporting them and providing excellent service.”

Howard Chisholm, director of the BTC and managing director of independent LBO chain Chisholm Bookmakers, added: “It is important for those members of the BTC who subscribe to Turf TV that they have timely and accurate data to support the picture service.  This agreement enables those shops to receive that data into their EPOS systems for automatic settlement of bets.  This is a first step, but it is – none the less – a step in the right direction for the independent sector.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

1/ Turf TV is a service owned by Amalgamated Racing, a Joint Venture between Timeweave plc and 31 UK racecourses. It was first launched in April 2007, and its full service started on January 1 2008.

2/ Turf TV broadcasts exclusive coverage to Licensed Betting Offices from its 31 shareholder racecourses, which include Cheltenham, Ascot, Newmarket, Aintree, Epsom, Newbury, York, Goodwood and Chester.

3/ The Bookmakers Technology Consortium is an organisation formed to represent the interests of some 225 independent Licensed Betting Offices, including those shops owned by Backhouse Bet, Betster, Jenningsbet, Better, Corbettsports, Chisholm and Roar. The BTC aims to negotiate for best technology service and practice on behalf of its members.

Further Information:

Charlie Methven (New Century Media)            0207 930 8033

charliemethven@newcenturymedia.co.uk