BGC and Its Members Mourn the Passing of Paul Darling

Britain’s Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) and its members have paid tribute to Paul Darling, the chair of the Horserace Betting Levy Board, who passed away. Industry representatives thanked Darling for his incredible contributions and expressed sadness about his passing.

The Racing and Betting Sector Lost a Great Man

Michael Dugher, chairman of the BGC, said that his team is incredibly sorry to learn that “such an incredibly clever person” is no longer around. He promised that Darling, whom he lauded as a distinguished lawyer, horseracing innovator and dear friend, will be remembered with much fondness.

My thoughts and prayers are with his many friends and loved ones at this terribly sad time.

Michael Dugher, chair, BGC

BGC’s chief executive officer, Grainne Hurst, also expressed her condolences, emphasizing that Darling’s passing is a loss for the entire industry. She said that the man was a legal and regulatory expert who was truly passionate about the racing and betting industries.

He will be greatly missed by everyone who has ever worked with him and my thoughts go out to his family and friends at this particularly difficult time.

Grainne Hurst, CEO, BGC

Gary Follis, executive director at the BGC, added that Darling was not only popular, intelligent and distinguished in the betting sector but also had an “immensely sharp wit” which he used to win friends and arguments alike.

My deepest sympathies are with his wife Camilla and wider family. He will be greatly missed by us all.

Gary Follis, exec director, BGC

Industry Representatives Expressed Their Condolences

Industry representatives also commented on the disheartening news, expressing their sadness to lose Darling.

Entain’s group director of consumer PR, Simon Clare, for example, described the development as “desperately sad news.” Clare said that Darling was a “larger than life character” whose presence made the industry better.

He will be sorely missed and I would like to offer my sincere and heartfelt condolences to Camilla and all of Paul’s friends and family on behalf of the many people at Entain who were fortunate enough to know Paul.

Simon Clare, group director of consumer PR, Entain

Ursula Servis, former director of ABB, was likewise sad to hear of Darling’s passing, saying that the opportunity to work with him has been one of the highlights of her career.

Greg Knight, MD at JenningsBet, applauded Darling’s contributions and calm nature, saying that he was one of the “few people who understood the symbiotic relationship between racing and bookmaking.” Add echoed the others’ sentiments, saying that the man will be sorely missed.

Last but not least, Malcolm George, former CEO of ABB, said that he enjoyed his time working with Darling and promised to remember his kindness to the ABB team and its members.