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Global gambling revenue is estimated to pass $155 billion in 2012 after growing at an annually compounded rate of 6.5 percent per year, according to a PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP report released last month. Gambling revenue is expected to rise from nearly $114 billion in 2007 because of new casinos and upgrades to existing ones around the world, the report said.

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Southend has become the first town in the UK to boast a bookies inside an amusement arcade. The betting shop has opened at the Fantasia Amusement Arcade in Eastern Esplanade, in an adult-only section at the rear of the arcade.

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The annual Gala Bingo Caller of the Year Grand Final will take place at the end of June as this issue goes to press. Following victory in the regional heats, the eight finalists will now be judged on stage presence, appearance and interview technique, at Gala Bingo, Kingsbury Road, Birmingham.

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Not only will the winner walk away with a cash prize but he/she will also have the chance to audition to be a caller on popular Gala TV, home to some of the industry's best bingo talent.