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Pub boozers in money over 'national' namesake win
Last updated at 14:52pm on 16.04.07A group of regulars won about £60,000 between them on the Grand National by betting on their pub's namesake - Silver Birch, it emerged today.
Around 150 people who drink at the pub in Bracknell, Berkshire, cashed in on jockey Robbie Power's victorious ride at the weekend.
Landlord Phil Clark was not among the winning punters, believing his involvement would have "jinxed" the fortunes of his customers.
He said he has only ever bet on three horses in his life, all of them losers, so he opted out. But Mr Clark still managed to cash in as his winning clientele toasted their success on the 33-1 shot.
"They almost drank me out of beer," said the 30-year-old.
"I reckon they won about £60,000."
A spokesman for bookmakers Coral said: "It was a fantastic result for bookmakers but it was just our bad luck to have a shop next to the Silver Birch."
