The Betting Shop

Two men outside a betting shop, Whitechapel 1986

I’ve never placed a bet in a betting shop. My only reason for being in one has been to photograph the customers. I’ve always been amazed at the way punters appear to be in a daze – oblivious to the world around them. Here the man wearing a hat stares into the distance but I feel that his mind is somewhere else. Has he lost all his money or is he contemplating a final bet?

Two men outside a betting shop, Whitechapel 1986

Its time for a cigarette and a discussion about the horse that should have won.

Woman at the entrance of a betting shop in Newham, 1988

The illustrations of footballers and race horses frame this lady as she emerges from the dark interior of the betting shop.

Outside a betting shop. Whitechapel 2009

Betting shop, Whitechapel c. 1987

Betting shop, Whitechapel c.1987