Celtic Bookmakers close 16 more shops

JOB losses at troubled bookie chain Celtic Bookmakers have reached 62, following last night’s announcement that another 16 shops have closed.

The chain, owned by former government minister Ivan Yates, went into receivership earlier this month and two shops were initially closed with the loss of six jobs.

However, receiver Neil Hughes of Hughes Blake said last night that it was necessary to announce further closures in order to try and maintain the viability of the remaining 29 shops in the chain.