GAMBLING can be nothing more than an entertaining diversion. A punt at York Races or a night at the bingo is good clean fun - just ask Tony McDaid, who won more than £100,000 at Clifton Bingo Club last week.

Gambling can also become an addiction which ruins lives and destroys families. That is why it must be properly regulated.

But Britain's rules on betting have been superseded by the explosion in internet poker, casinos and the like.

There are no entry restrictions here. All you need is a credit card and a computer or mobile phone and the game is on.

Ryedale MP John Greenway is right to be worried. We hope ministers respond to his concerns.

Updated: 10:52 Monday, March 20, 2006