Luke Ashton: Betfair Criticised by Coroner Over Gambler's Death Luke Ashton: Betfair criticised by coroner over gambler's death 29 June 2023 ByDan Martin BBC News A coroner has actually discovered Betfair should have done more to assist a gaming addict before he killed himself. Luke Ashton, 40, from Leicester, died in April 2021 after developing up big debts betting online. An inquest heard he staked larger sums chasing his losses in the weeks before his death. Coroner Ivan Cartwright said he was concerned Betfair did not meaningfully communicate or step in when Mr Ashton's gambling activity surged. He concluded betting disorder was a cause of Mr Ashton's death. Missed chances The inquest, at Leicester Town Hall, heard before he passed away, Mr Ashton had actually been betting more than 100 times a day, including early in the morning and late in the evening when his other half was asleep. He placed 1,229 bets in March 2021 and on one day of that month alone he transferred ₤ 2,500. Mr Cartwright said: "He was assessed as being a low-risk gambler although his activity was more extensive in the 10 weeks prior to his death. "The operator did not step in or interact with Mr Ashton in any meaningful way. "Betfair might have done more in the relevant duration and ought to have done more in what I discover was a turning point between late January and April 2021. "Opportunities were missed that might potentially have actually altered the outcome for Luke." Mr Ashton's body was discovered in a leased flat near Mexborough, South Yorkshire, after his partner reported him missing and his phone was tracked utilizing an app. Betfair was called to offer proof to the inquest as Mr Cartwright looked for to establish whether the firm's actions added to Mr Ashton's death.