A quarter of gambling operators in Great Yarmouth are in danger of losing their licences if they do not heed a July 31 deadline to comply with new legislation.

Existing operators, including those with betting, casino gaming, bingo and gaming machines are affected by the Gambling Act 2005 which comes into operation on September 1.

The legislation replaces the Gaming Act 1968 and creates a new system of licensing and regulation. Anyone missing the July 31 deadline could face losing their right to trade.

The new Act will mean that licensees now have to with conditions and social responsibility codes of practice that have statutory force. They relate to three licensing objectives:

• Preventing gambling from becoming a source of crime and disorder

• Ensuring that gambling is conducted in a fair and open way, and

• Protecting children and other vulnerable people from being harmed or exploited by gambling.

“The licensing team realises that changes of these nature sometimes mean that extra help is needed by the organisations they affect,” said Linda Mockford, Great Yarmouth Borough Council’s Services Manager Licensing and Elections.

“We have been offering training sessions and meeting existing licenses to help and advise on the procedure.

“If anyone else requires further information they can contact the licensing team on 01493 846530.”