The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has announced the appointment of Simon Clare, Customer Communications Director at Entain, as its representative to the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB). The HBLB plays a crucial role in channeling a portion of bookmakers’ profits to support various aspects of horseracing, including breeding initiatives, advancements in veterinary science, and overall improvements to the sport.
Administered by a board of seven members, the HBLB includes a representative appointed by the BGC to reflect the interests of bookmakers. Simon Clare assumed his new role on October 7, succeeding Mike O’Kane.
BGC members contributed £105 million to the HBLB in the last financial year, an increase of £5 million from the previous year. This additional funding has enabled the HBLB to boost its prize money contributions for 2024, allocating £70.5 million, up from £67.3 million in 2023. This represents the third consecutive year of increased Levy contributions, with figures rising from £97 million in 2021/2022 to £100 million in 2022/2023.
Simon Clare brings nearly 30 years of experience in the betting and horseracing industries. Following his graduation from Liverpool University with a degree in Politics, he joined the Jockey Club Graduate Scheme, gaining early exposure to the Horserace Betting Levy Board. He has since held various senior roles in PR and communications at Ladbrokes, Coral, and, following the merger, Entain. Simon now oversees PR, Sponsorship, and Social Media for Entain’s UK brands, including Ladbrokes, Coral, Gala, Foxy, and Partypoker.
The BGC also recently paid tribute to Paul Darling OBE, KC, the former Chair of the HBLB and the Association of British Bookmakers, who passed away earlier this year. Paul’s dedication and passion for the industry left a lasting impact on British horseracing and betting.
In addition to the Levy contributions, BGC members contribute approximately £350 million annually to British horseracing through media rights and sponsorships. The regulated betting and gaming industry supports 110,000 jobs, generates £4.2 billion in tax revenue, and contributes £7.1 billion to the UK economy.
Each month, around 22.5 million adults in the UK participate in various forms of betting, from lottery tickets and bingo to casino gaming and sports wagering. According to the NHS Health Survey for England, the problem gambling rate among adults remains low, at 0.4%.
Grainne Hurst, CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council, said: “We’re delighted Simon is joining the HBLB.
“He brings an unrivalled wealth of experience from his many years with Ladbrokes and Coral, where he has become respected as a vocal and passionate champion of the sport.
“I know his wisdom and knowledge will be crucial assets to the HBLB over the coming years. I would also like to pay tribute to Mike O’Kane who has been an excellent representative to the HBLB on behalf of BGC members.
“Over his time with the HBLB Mike has brought a strong voice for the sector to the Board at a time of significant change for racing and also record Levy contributions. We wish Mike well in the future and are delighted to welcome Simon to the HBLB.”
Entain Customer Communications Director Simon Clare, said: “I am extremely honoured to be joining the Horserace Betting Levy Board as the betting representative.
“Mike O’Kane will be a hard act to follow, and I would like to thank him for the great contribution he has made in his time in the role.
“I have been fortunate to have enjoyed a long and varied career within the betting industry with Coral, now Entain, alongside a lifelong passion for horse racing and all major sports, so will hopefully be able to make a valuable contribution to the Board.”
You can read tributes to Paul Darling here.
