SCOTBET, Scotland's largest independent betting shop chain, has become a member of Senet Group, the self-regulating body for the gambling industry.

Midlothian-based Scotbet has joined founder members William Hill, Ladbrokes, Coral and Paddy Power in committing to a code of conduct designed to meet high standards of social responsibility.

Chairman John Heaton said: "We've always placed a high priority on promoting responsible gambling, so it seemed natural to join Senet as a mark of our commitment to that principle.

"In keeping with Senet's rules, we have withdrawn all advertising of gaming machines from shop windows and will be devoting 20% of window advertising to responsible gambling messages.

"While most customers enjoy betting safely, it's important that the industry plays its part in protecting vulnerable people. We look forward to working with Senet to achieve that goal."