Have the Bookies sussed the job?

Press Release
North East No Campaign
26th November 2004

"Bookies Refuse No Campaigners Any More Bets"

The Sunderland branch of Ladbrokes was featured in last Sunday's BBC Politics Show and illustrated that the referendum in the North East was neck and neck.
Ladbrokes Area Manager, Don Young was interviewed and quoted prices of 5/6 for both Yes and No campaigns to win the vote.

On Monday, Neil Herron and Colin Moran decided to take up such generous odds and put their faith in their own sides' arguments by laying a bet. However, Ladbrokes were only prepared to take part of the bet at 5/6, and cut the odds to 8/13 for the rest of the bet. The two No Campaigners took the prices offered but Ladbrokes confirmed that they would not take further 'No' bets from us and the odds would be dramatically slashed.

Don Young confirmed that the No Campaign appeared to be moving into the lead, citing latest opinion polls. They would however continue to take bets from people wishing to vote 'Yes.'

Neil Herron, Campaign Director for the North East No Campaign states, " It was great that Ladbrokes entered into the spirit of the campaign and offered such generous odds. I am disappointed that the odds have now been slashed dramatically and to such an extent that Ladbrokes will not another bet from us. We were just about to iron our shirts to put on! If the message is that even the bookies aren't confident I wonder if the Yes Campaign have the confidence in their argument to take up Ladbrokes very generous odds for a Yes vote? I have heard that they are only looking for an each-way bet."

It appears as though 'Prescott's Folly' is about to go the same way as 'Devon Loch' as the people get ready to reject what has been the biggest political con trick ever foisted on the people of the North East.

ENDS

Neil Herron
Campaign Director
North East No Campaign
Frederick Street
Sunderland
SR1 1NF
Tel. 0191 565 7143
Mob. 07776 202045
www.northeastnocampaign.co.uk and www.neilherron.blogspot.com

Notes to Editors:

After visiting the excellent run facility at Stepney Bank Riding Stables the two No Campaigners have agreed to hand over a percentage of their winnings to Susan Tron, of the facility. The Stable provided the facility and horse for the photo shoot showing the Senior Citizen's Party changing horses and joining the No Campaign. To see that coverage please click here