Why did bookies previously close on Good Friday?

[Jamesie]

As it says above. Read quite a lot about this online and the change in 2008, but haven't found anything to say why they were closed in the first place. Anyone know the reasoning?

[aazza91]

Not 100% but i'm sure i heard somewhere there was no racing on good friday? Therefore there wouldnt be much point in it opening

[Jamesie]

Ta - so why was there no racing on Good Friday!?

[Scouse Hibee]

Banned by law because it was one if the most important religious days, in force since 1960 before the law was changed.

[Love the Green]

Ta - so why was there no racing on Good Friday!?

Cause the bookies were shut :thumbsup:

"keep the faith"

[Mibbes Aye]

Good Friday marks the crucifixion of Christ, making it a wee bit important in countries from a Christian tradition. Think it's the case that most things didn't take place because of that, rather than racing specifically being targeted. As Christianity has diminished in influence in this country, so has the emphasis placed on its holy days or feast days.

[Toaods]

Nice bit of religion but the real reason is that workers always had to work Boxing Day as more money was taken it made sense to forego this one instead.

[Scouse Hibee]

Nice bit of religion but the real reason is that workers always had to work Boxing Day as more money was taken it made sense to forego this one instead.


As stated previously the real reason is nothing to do with working boxing day but the change in the law (Gambling Act 2005) which originally forbid it due to religious reasons.

[Steve-O]

Racing and Gambling are a SIN! :devil:

[Danderhall Hibs]

Cause the bookies were shut :thumbsup:

"keep the faith"

:hilarious :thumbsup: