BOOKMAKER William Hill said a revenues boost from gaming machines and the internet helped it overcome a tough start to the year in horse racing.

The amount left by losing punters in its betting shops declined by 5% after bad weather caused race cancellations and bookies suffered a tough time at the Cheltenham Festival in March.

The deterioration in the 17 weeks to April 28 came despite a successful Grand National, when 100-1 outsider Mon Mome romped home at Aintree.

William Hill reported a continued strong performance in football betting and gaming machines. As a result, the company’s gross win from retail operations increased by 2%.

Including the expanded online business, revenues for the group increased by 6.5% in the first quarter of the year.