When I last wrote about Coral Bookmaker it was in connection with their cash-hoovering operation at 34 St James's Street.
At that time, I only had figures showing the group's turnover as being £1,309.9 million. More up to date figures now show a reduction in turnover and profits for 2007/8, to £1268.5million, with profits down by £214.3million to £95.6million for the year.
The Coral Bookmakers shop at 207 Forest Road stands on the corner of Century Road, and faces the Spring Cafe. It is an ugly place, even if according to the Germans it is as British as the Queen. It does nothing to improve the ambience or appearance of the neighbourhood.
The Executive Chairman of this corporation since January this year is a chap called Neil Goulden, who is currently also a member of the Low Pay Commission which sets the minimum wage. I would not give good odds on him ever having lived for any appreciable period on minimum wage himself.