James Evans took part in the Grand National Charity Bet Campaign 2025, an initiative organised by the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), to support a cause close to his heart.

The Brecon and Radnorshire MS visited a local betting shop in Brecon last Friday to place a £50 charity bet on the Grand National. The campaign allows participants to place a bet on the iconic race, with all winnings donated to a charity of their choice. Even if the chosen horse doesn't win, all participants are guaranteed a donation to their nominated charity. For Mr Evans, the beneficiary is the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI), a charity that supports farming families in need.

The BGC, which represents the regulated betting and gaming industry across the UK (excluding the National Lottery), has teamed up with its members to raise funds for various causes while celebrating one of the UK's top sporting events. As part of the campaign, the BGC has pledged to donate £250 to each participant's chosen charity, even if their bet doesn’t come through.

Mr Evans said: “I am proud to support the Grand National Charity Bet Campaign and take up BCG’s generous offer of a charity bet and also discuss the incredibly important work they have been doing on safer gambling.

“It was great to meet the staff and customers at William Hill in Brecon and have a flutter on the Grand National in aid of charity.

“The shop is a hub of activity and social interaction and the close relationship between the staff and their customers is evident, looking out for individuals and ensuring responsible and safe gambling.

“Our betting shops employ tens of thousands of people across the UK on our hard-pressed high streets, supporting the local economy. Horse racing supports over 80,000 jobs and contributes £4.1 billion to the economy, with the Grand National remaining a cornerstone of Britain’s sporting and cultural heritage”.

“Sadly, my horse did not win but I am pleased to be able to secure the donation of £250 towards RABI (Brecon & Radnor). BCG Members work incredibly hard to promote safer gambling. This bet was a bit of fun but remember the saying when the fun stops, stop.”

A spokesperson for the Betting and Gaming Council said: “The Grand National is one of the very few global sporting occasions with the power to bring the whole nation together, spurred on by the history, the heritage and the incredible spectacle it offers.

“It truly is the nation’s punt, and we are absolutely delighted to work alongside our amazing members to ensure the Grand National once again also supports some incredible local charities. I would like to extend a massive thanks to all parliamentarians, including James Evans MS, who have taken the time out to meet with staff, for taking part, and helping raise thousands of pounds for good causes.”