In April, Alok visited the local Coral branch in Theale to place a £50 charity bet on the 2022 Grand National. Whilst Alok’s horse did not come in, the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) members pledged to make a £250 donation to a nominated charity, ensuring charities did not miss out.

The BGC, the standards body for the regulated UK betting and gaming industry, invited MPs to visit either a Paddy Power, William Hill, Ladbrokes, Coral, Betfred or independent betting shop in their constituency to place their charity bet ahead of the world’s greatest steeplechase.

Although he was not lucky enough to win, the BGC kindly donated £250 to Alok’s nominated charity, Daisy’s Dream. The charity offers a free professional support service which responds to the needs of children and families affected by life threatening illness or bereavement. Working predominantly in Berkshire, they offer tailored support packages including telephone support for parents and professionals, group events and school/home visits for the child or young person.

At Daisy’s Dream, they believe that no child’s future should be defined by a death or a life-limiting illness within the family. Given time and support, they feel that children and young people can learn to cope with the changing dynamics of their life and ultimately move forwards in a positive way.

Daisy’s Dream has an annual fundraising target in excess of £450,000 which is a huge task following Covid.

Alok Sharma MP said:

“The Grand National is one of those great sporting moments when the whole nation comes together. I was delighted to visit the Coral branch on Theale Highstreet in April to meet the staff and customers.”

Alok continued:

“I was very lucky to win two years running with the Grand National Charity bet in 2018 and 2019, betting on the champion Tiger Roll. Sadly, I did not win this year, but I am very grateful to the BGC for their pledge to donate £250 to local charity, Daisy’s Dream on my behalf. The charity undertakes important work to support children and families during difficult times.”

Jo Stewart, Community Fundraising Officer at Daisy’s Dream said:

“On behalf of Daisy’s Dream I would like to say a huge thank you to Alok Sharma MP, as well as the Betting and Gaming Council members. This kind donation will be used directly to support children and young people who have faced or are facing the death of someone they love.”

Photos: Alok placing bet at Coral; Alok with BGC’s Chairman, Brigid Simmonds; and Alok Sharma MP with Jo Stewart, Community Fundraising Officer at Daisy’s Dream