Guernsey's internet gambling addicts to get more help

A new counselling service to help online gambling addicts is to be introduced in Guernsey.

The Guernsey Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council (GADAC) said it had already helped teenagers who played online poker and women playing bingo.

David Newman, the director of GADAC, said: "With the advent of online and e-gambling globally, there has been a noticeable increase in clients.

"It is felt that we will soon be seeing a similar increase here."

Mr Newman is to undertake a two-year diploma in gambling addiction with the Institute of Counselling, to improve the services available to islanders.

GADAC, which is a registered charity, provides its services free of charge, as part of the Bailiwick Drug and Alcohol Strategy.