MEMBERS and staff at Mecca bingo in Gloucester are writing to their MP overs fears for the future of the game. A Government decision to increase tax on bingo has seen the duty jump from 15% to 22%. Together with the increase in online gaming and the smoking ban, there are fears people will no longer be bingo-ing mad. The Citizen's Sarah Webb went along Mecca Bingo in Eastgate Street to see if there was a full house.

THERE were almost 100 people in the silent hall of the former cinema as it was eyes down ready to play.

The bingo caller shouted the numbers as people quickly dabbed out their numbers with the adrenaline going in the hope of a win.

I never thought I would keep up with the caller but after a few numbers, I realised I was starting to become a pro and was quite enthralled in the game.

During a break in the game, I spoke to pensioner May Hayes, of Sherborne Street in Kingsholm, who plays bingo about two or three times a week.

Mrs Hayes, who is in her 70s, said: "I love it, I keep coming. I come for the entertainment and it keeps my brain active. I even neglected the new designer outlet to come here.

"On the whole you can win quite a bit sometimes, I don't always win, but it is good when you do."

Fellow bingo fan, Caroline Maher, 32, of Hopewell Street, Tredworth, also plays twice a week.

She goes along as it a chance to meet up with friends.

"I know everyone here and the staff are really friendly. There is a nice atmosphere and there is also a cafe and a smoking shelter outside," she said.

Despite a brief chat, it was soon back to business and I had to concentrate on my cards.

As the numbers were called I could see one of my books getting fuller and before I knew it I only had one number left. All I needed was number 26 and as I heard it , I leapt up and shouted "house". I'd won £10.

I loved my time at bingo and it was certainly not just the stereotype of pensioners on a grand day out.

I will definitely go again and bring my mates next time for a girlie night out.

This is music to the ears of Jean Partridge, operations manager at Mecca Bingo in Eastgate Street. Jean has worked for Mecca bingo for 23 years. And she said it was vital more people gave it a go to keep the tradition alive.

She said: "We have to try to encourage younger generations to come to us otherwise we will deteriorate. We have so much here now we have food, a bar, slot machines and conversation and we even do birthday parties.

"Unfortunately with taxation as it is it is just so unfair. It will deteriorate."