A POPULAR bingo hall in Rhyl has been purchased after the company which owned it entered administration, which will secure the site for years to come.

Apollo Rhyl, on Brighton Road, was one of eight UK venues run by independent retail bingo operator Majestic Bingo which faced an uncertain future after the operator went into administration earlier this year.

Majestic Bingo also ran sites in Caernarfon, Cornwall, Donnington, Bishop Auckland, Tonypandy, Worcester and Skegness.

The eight sites have now been acquired by Real Fun Group Ltd, who aim to become a prominent player in the UK’s independent bingo sector.

The acquisition expands the group’s portfolio to a total of 10 bingo clubs throughout England and Wales, and has safeguarded the employment of more than 130 people.

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Experienced entrepreneurs backing the group have reinforced their commitment to growth and community engagement through this significant expansion.

Majestic Bingo Limited entered administration on July 7, 2023, led by Tim Bateson and Chris Pole from Interpath as joint administrators.

They expressed their delight at the positive outcome of the acquisition, particularly noting its timing during the festive season.

Tim Bateson said: “The successful acquisition by Real Fun Group not only preserves numerous jobs but also ensures continuity for the communities these clubs serve.”

Kevin McGinnigle, CEO of Real Fun Group, shared his enthusiasm for the new venture, stating: “I’m incredibly excited by this opportunity.

“This was a well-run business that was hit with devastating luck over the last few years, and I can’t wait to work with the team.

“To sit here today, knowing we’re able to keep so many people in work is an unbelievable feeling.”

“Undoubtedly there is a lot of work ahead of us and I’m confident we’ve got the right people within the business to make this a huge success for everyone concerned.

“Coming from a family of bingo players, I’m aware of the role that local bingos club play in their community and to get the opportunity to keep these historic clubs open for our customers is just fantastic.”

With this acquisition, Real Fun Group now employs nearly 200 staff across 10 bingo clubs nationwide, positioning itself as one of the UK’s largest independent bingo operators.