BINGO fans in Exeter are calling on Exeter MP Ben Bradshaw to block Government plans to "unfairly" tax players.

More than 160 customers and staff at Mecca Bingo in Exeter have written to Mr Bradshaw asking for his support in overturning the Government's decision to raise bingo duty to 22 per cent.

Davina Warden, manager of Mecca Bingo in Exeter, said, "Our customers just can't understand why the Government is targeting bingo.

"It just doesn't seem to be fair that someone can go to the bookies and place a bet and only pay 15 per cent tax, whilst one of our customers has to pay 22 per cent.

"To our customers, this is about so much more than just bingo.

"For some, this is the only opportunity they have to socialise with other people and it would be criminal if clubs are forced to close because the Government is discriminating against one of the nation's favourite past times.

"That's why we are urging the Government to keep tax at 15 per cent and not increase it to 22 per cent."

Several bingo firms, including Mecca, have mounted a sustained campaign to persuade the government that the "double taxation" of bingo, which pays Vat and gross profits tax, is unfair. No other form of gaming faces such a regime.

The industry has warned that, without a change, many halls could close because of the cost to bingo operators.