Gambling Guides

	Bookmakers
	Betting Basics
	Betting Tips

1. Make sure you know exactly what you want to bet on before you open any relevant website. Flashing lights and big odds sometimes tempt the unwary punter into a riskier bet, eg. Scholes to score first and England to win 4-2. Saying that, some people do win that type of bet and the rewards can be massive – it just doesn’t happen very often.
   

2. Learn about new methods of betting, eg . Spreads or Exchanges . This can improve your chances because you’ll have a wider range of companies to choose from.
   

3. Open several accounts, not just for the offers but also to place a last-minute bet rapidly, avoiding 10 minutes of registering and entering card details etc.
   

4. Bet early on major events for the best prices. Often the winning team/player is at large odds before the event starts, so don't miss out.
   

5. Use a debit card. Credit cards sometimes get charged extra and make it difficult to withdraw winnings. Debit cards or Neteller are much simpler and cheaper.
   

6. Keep informed – check around for news and offers. Start by joining our mailing list.
   

New Account Offers

Free Bet This is usually a free bet of a fixed amount, perhaps £10 or £20 but sometimes as high as £50, or it could be to the same value as your first bet with the company.  This is the easiest way of making money from a bookie. See Best Offers for a full list.

CashBack This is usually money in your account as a % of your first bet.  Sometimes you can withdraw this, or it might have to be used to bet.  Either way, it’s an extra bonus.

Competitions Special Bets Loyalty  Schemes Extra incentives such as Sports Event tickets or large free bets are increasingly being used to get new sign-ups or extra betting activity. The bookies seem to be offering better rewards to try and keep customers over the long term, instead of just for 1 or 2 bets. This loyalty works both ways; if they’re a good company with decent odds and offers - then you’ll stay with them.