Entertainment

Will Non-GamStop Casinos Become Mainstream?

Published

2 years ago

June 5, 2024

When we talk about non-GamStop casinos, these gambling platforms do not follow the UK’s self-exclusion program, also known as GamStop. This program was created in the UK and allows players to restrict their gambling access with self-exclusion. The good news is that there are casinos without any self-exclusion limitations. These casinos are often based outside the UK and offer more freedom to players. They will hold casino licenses from other jurisdictions, which gives them more independence.

Through non-GamStop platforms, players benefit from more bonuses, a bigger selection of casino games, and more flexibility. It is difficult to predict if non-GamStop casinos will become mainstream. It will depend on regulatory environments, technological innovations, and players’ preferences. This article will take a closer look at these.

Can Non-GamStop Casinos Become a Mainstream Online Gambling Option?

There is no doubt that non-GamStop casinos have the potential to become mainstream. The points below discuss various factors that can influence the growth of non-GamStop casinos.

Regulatory environment

This plays a big factor in whether non-GamStop casinos can make it to the mainstream. There are some regions and jurisdictions such as the UK rules and regulations are strict, and there are only casinos that feature GamStop available. It can be very tricky for Non-GamStop sites to gain any foothold in certain regions of the world because of this. For non-GamStop casinos to become part of the mainstream, they will require a more lenient regulation, which will include a more relaxed atmosphere. In regions that cater to this type of atmosphere, non-GamStop casinos can start to thrive and become bigger.

Player preference

The biggest factor in non-GamStop casinos becoming part of the mainstream is, of course, player preference. Many gamblers prefer the freedom and flexibility that non-GamStop casinos offer. Players also benefit from the wide range of games available through non-GamStop sites. Players who prefer non-GamStop casinos also enjoy larger betting options that come with these platforms.

Marketing strategies

If non-GamStop casinos use all the marketing avenues open to them, such as social media platforms, influencer marketing, and affiliate partnerships, non-GamStop sites will have a chance of going mainstream. The better the communication, the more awareness there will be for non-GamStop casinos. All of this will assist in creating a mainstream appeal for these types of online casinos.

Considering Potential Challenges of Playing at Non-GamStop Casinos

There are some challenges which come with using non-GamStop casinos, these include the following:

• Limited responsible gambling tools

With fewer tools to assist players with their gambling habits, this can lead to a higher chance for an individual to become addicted to gambling. Non-GamStop casinos may not offer the same amount of features that help with this type of situation. This will then put pressure on each gambler to gain self-control and take responsibility for their gambling habits.

• Lack of regulation

While organisations such as CMA in the UK protect customers, non-GamStop sites may operate in regions with fewer rules, and therefore, there is less protection for players. A lack of regulation can expose players to unfair practices like non-payment of winnings, theft of personal data, and unfair gaming practices.

• An increased chance of problem gambling

Where there is a lack of regulation and responsible gambling measures, Non-GamStop casinos have the potential to cause issues for vulnerable gamblers. Players can be more susceptible to over-gambling, which can lead to financial loss and mental health issues.

• No consumer protection

Gamblers who use non-GamStop casinos may have limited access to disputes with the operator. With little or no consumer protection in place for individuals, it will be a challenge to resolve any complaints of unfair treatment.

As with everything in life, opting for a non-GamStop casino has challenges. The points above illustrate the challenges of using non-GamStop platforms. The most important consideration is always to prioritise safety and responsible gambling when online.

Future Predictions For The Gambling Market

There is sure to be an even larger increase in players turning to gambling websites in the coming years. Through mobile gambling, which gives every player the freedom to play from anywhere on the planet, there will be huge increases in this form of entertainment. With dedicated mobile apps, operators will be able to reach a huge audience of players. There is certain to be more cryptocurrency gambling with Bitcoin, Ethereum, Doge, Ripple, and others. This will bring about more security and privacy for gamblers. Cryptocurrency casinos will also offer faster payments, which will be an alternative to traditional banking methods.

We can all expect to see VR and AR technologies introduced into online gambling in the coming years. This will certainly bring about a more immersive gaming experience for every player. It will attract tech-savvy players, revolutionise live dealer games, and become much more mainstream.

Entertainment

Gavin & Stacey stars reunite for Christmas advert

Published

11 hours ago

December 4, 2025

Luke Sinclair

GAVIN & STACEY favourites Joanna Page and Mathew Horne have reunited on screen for a Christmas special – though not the one fans might have hoped for. Instead of returning to Barry or Billericay, the duo appear together in a new festive advert for Waitrose, sharing a turkey pie while responding to a fan’s heartfelt letter about expressing love through food.

The short film marks their appearance in How to Say It With Food, a six-part series in which Page and Horne tackle some of the nation’s most common Christmas food dilemmas. The clip opens with Page teasingly nodding to their iconic sitcom: “Oh, you didn’t think we’d let Christmas roll around without showing up again, did you?”

Horne quickly follows with his own playful line: “Us? Miss Christmas? Not a chance. But this time we’re here to help you say it with food.”

The pair are then handed an envelope “from Santa”, containing a letter from a viewer asking how he can show his “leading lady” he loves her through food. Mathew quips: “First time saying it, you want a statement. Sixteenth time, you want a statement that doesn’t involve socks.”

He then introduces Waitrose’s new Christmas advert starring Keira Knightley and Joe Wilkinson. The main campaign follows an unlikely festive romance sparked by Sussex Charmer cheese and culminating in Wilkinson presenting Knightley with a turkey pie decorated with the words “I love you”. Watching the moment unfold, Page smiles at Horne and mirrors another classic Gavin & Stacey reference: “Oh, that’s so romantic.”

The duo are soon given their own turkey pie to try. Horne eagerly tucks in before cutting Page a slice, prompting laughter from his co-star. The advert ends with the pair wishing viewers a Merry Christmas as Knightley and Wilkinson share a warm festive kiss on screen.

The reunion comes almost a year after audiences tuned in to the BBC sitcom’s much-anticipated finale, which drew an impressive 12.3 million viewers on Christmas Day. The episode wrapped up storylines including Gwen’s blossoming romance with Dave Coaches, Smithy’s near-wedding to Sonia, and the moment fans had long debated – Smithy and Nessa tying the knot.

Reflecting on the new project, Page said: “You thought you’d seen the last of us! Well, we’re back and what fun we had.” She added: “It was such a treat working with Mat… food is what brings people together over the festive season.”

Horne described the experience as “brilliant”, calling their on-screen reunion “a Christmas tradition”.

Entertainment

Filming for new season of S4C crime drama Cleddau returns to Pembrokeshire

Published

2 days ago

December 3, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Production crew spotted in Pembroke Dock, Neyland and Burton as series set for 2026 release

FILMING has returned to Pembrokeshire this week for the next season of Cleddau — the hit S4C crime drama released in English as The One That Got Away.

The production crew has been seen in Pembroke Dock, Neyland and Burton capturing new scenes for the upcoming 2026 series. Local photographer Gareth Davies shared images of the team working along the estuary, describing “a real buzz” in the area as cast and crew returned after the success of the first season.

Crime thriller rooted in the Cleddau estuary

Cleddau follows a murder investigation that reopens buried secrets in a quiet west Wales community. The show has been praised for its atmospheric storytelling, strong performances and striking use of local Pembrokeshire scenery — with the Cleddau estuary itself forming a central part of the series’ identity.

Residents have reported seeing cameras and production vehicles around familiar walking routes, waterfront areas and estuary-side villages as the crew makes full use of the landscape that inspired the show’s name.

Local interest and economic boost

The return of filming has been welcomed locally, bringing attention, visitors and activity into communities along the waterway. For many residents, the excitement lies in spotting familiar places on screen when the new season airs next year.

The new series of Cleddau is expected to be broadcast in 2026.

Entertainment

Cardigan Theatre brings Beauty and the Beast to Mwldan this Christmas

Published

4 days ago

December 1, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Festive panto promises magic, music and family fun

CARDIGAN Theatre is set to bring festive magic to Theatre Mwldan this Christmas with a fun-filled production of Beauty and the Beast, running from 21–29 December. The pantomime is written and directed by Jonathon Preece and promises all the traditional panto sparkle audiences love.

The story follows once-proud Prince Louis (Emily Davies), who angers Agatha the Evil Enchantress (Kelly Lewis). As punishment for his selfishness, she transforms him into the fearsome Beast (Steve Green). His only hope of breaking the spell is to find true love – or remain a beast forever.

Meanwhile, brave and kind-hearted Belle (Ruby Lemoine) sets out to rescue her eccentric father Marcel (Tom Loveday) who on his way to the “Big Invention Competition”, gets lost and stumbles into the enchanted castle and is taken prisoner by the Beast. Determined to save him, Belle is joined by her loyal friend Jaques, the village silly billy (Sarah Harris), flamboyant Dame Madam Fromage (Rhys Davies), and Gavin (Paul Robinson), the vain village heart-throb who is convinced Belle should marry him!

Inside the castle, Belle encounters a host of enchanted objects, including Tick Tock (Lilwen), Flambe (Bryce), and Mrs Kettle (Manon), who provide humour, magic and plenty of encouragement as they try to help the Beast win Belle’s heart and break Agatha’s curse.

With songs, jokes, colourful characters and plenty of audience participation, the production promises festive fun for all ages.

Beauty and the Beast runs at Theatre Mwldan from 21–29 December. Early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.

Cardigan Theatre can be followed on Facebook and Instagram for updates on future shows.