Mark Vaccarezza was crowned Champion of Champions in the final held at Genting International Casino at Resorts World Birmingham which was hosted by Ed James of Heart FM.

The 45-year-old plant operator was one of 75 finalists who earned their place after qualifying at Genting casinos around the UK and were treated to an overnight stay at the Genting Hotel in Resorts World Birmingham.

Mark said: “I was in shock when I won. We were each given 10,000 points to play with and my tactics were to bet small amounts. But in the later stages when I was behind I decided to bet on number nine, my birthday month of September, and it worked. I am not a professional gambler and when I qualified for the final I just thought I would go and enjoy it. I’ve never been in a competition before.”

The married father-of-one used to go to Genting’s Star City venue and switched to the new Genting International Casino located at the resort after it opened last October because it was closer to home. He added: “The staff are very welcoming and friendly. It was one of them who suggested I enter the roulette competition because it’s my favourite game but I never expected to do so well.”

Dave Scott, General Manager of the Genting International Casino said: “There was a great atmosphere for this exciting final as players from all over the UK took part. We’d like to thank everyone who supported the competition and congratulate our champion Mark on his success.”