Live Poker Still Thriving, Says Expert

Live poker scene not experiencing a lull, says gaming expert.

The recent cancellation of the Gala Casinos British Poker Tour (GCBPT) does not mean that the UK's live poker scene has stagnated, according to a poker expert.

Dave Woods, editor in chief of Poker Player Magazine, admitted that he was surprised by Gala's decision to scrap its tour, but claimed that the outlook for live poker tournaments remains relatively bright.

He suggested that the cancellation of the Gala tour had been a "money decision", as the competitive nature of the country's live poker scene can make it difficult for events to be profitable.

"I don't necessarily think this year's going to see a lull, even without the Gala tour. You'll still find live events every weekend if you want to play," Mr Woods commented.

He added: "I don't think it's a lull, I just think it's more [of] a business decision for Gala."

The GCBPT ran for two years, with Alan Vinson winning the 2008 grand final at the Harbourside Casino in Bristol.