Bingo gets vote of young women.

Bingo is increasing in popularity among younger women who are attracted by its relaxed atmosphere according to a popular gaming group.

Gala Group, the privately owned bingo and casino operator, said it had seen buoyant trading over the Christmas period with like-for-like sales for the seven weeks to January 7 rising by 5.9%. Total group sales rose by 6.9% to £71.5m.

The sales growth was largely driven by the success of its bingo halls, which attract an increasing number of younger women. Research suggests women prefer non-threatening, non-aggressive situations where they can gamble without fear or intimidation.