Place Your Bets

First broadcast August 2005

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Gambling today is a two trillion dollar industry, and with the internet getting in on the game, its dynamism shows no sign of abating.

But how did the industry grow and expand to become such an important economic engine? And what are the consequences for us all as we become a planet of gamblers?

In a new four-part series for BBC World Service, James Silver investigates the boom in gambling around the globe.

Part Two: Blackpool and Macau

James Silver looks at attempts being made in Britain and in the Chinese territory of Macau to spur economic growth and development through the introduction of new casino resorts.

The northern English city of Blackpool, once the nation's favourite seaside resort, has ambitious plans for a casino-fuelled regeneration and Macau is set to overtake Las Vegas as the world's largest gambling centre.