Racing Post and SIS launch one-off retail award

One-off awards launched to salute the work of betting shop staff during the pandemic

The Racing Post has teamed up with SIS to celebrate the work of retail staff during the Covid-19 pandemic in a one-off Betting Shop Champions Awards.

The awards, which are open to all retail staff in Britain and Ireland, will recognise the efforts of those working on the industry’s front line during what has been a challenging and difficult period.

The annual Betting Shop Manager of the Year competition has been cancelled for the last two years because of the pandemic and Racing Post chief executive Alan Byrne said the two companies were determined to do something to celebrate the “fantastic work” done throughout the industry.

He said: “We have heard many stories of managers and other people in retail going above and beyond the call of duty to protect the health of their customers and their staff, and simply to keep their shops open for business in the face of the challenges the pandemic has imposed on us all.

“We want to salute those efforts and highlight the resilience and determination that so many people have shown.”
SIS chief executive Richard Ames added: “It’s been a very difficult time for the industry over the last 18 months, but during this period there will be countless stories of how betting shop managers and staff have gone above and beyond for their customers.

“We are very pleased to be part of these awards and want to recognise the efforts of those who have continued to offer outstanding service to their communities and our industry.

“Good luck to all those who are nominated and I look forward to celebrating our betting shop heroes at the awards.”

From today betting shop staff are invited to nominate a colleague using an online form, which can be accessed by clicking here. The closing date for nominations is September 3.

A panel will then shortlist eight betting shop staff who will be recognised at a virtual awards event hosted by Lee Mottershead on November 17. The panel includes Tanya Stevenson, Richard Hayler of Ibas, Helen Scott of SIS, former BHA chief executive Nick Rust and Jim Cremin.

Everyone who is nominated will receive a special Racing Post front page.