THE Press was invited to a York betting shop to gamble £100 for charity.

The new Ladbrokes shop in Market Street invited a representative from the newspaper to make the bet in aid of our chosen charity - York Against Cancer.

Although Karen Hunton, promotions co-ordinator, disappointingly missed out on the chance to double the money when she backed Frankie Dettori, who came last on Debussy in the 3.45pm race at Goodwood, the bookies kindly said the £100 would still be given to the charity.

Julie Russell, the general manager of York Against Cancer, said: “This is a very unusual fundraising opportunity. I have been involved with the charity for six years and I have never experienced having a bet put on for us. It’s a lovely idea.

“It’s nice to be thought of. We are the only local cancer charity and it’s nice to think we get thought of by York people.”