BETTING buffs can now put their money where their mouth is at a Worcester bookies which faced permanent closure.

Steve Mason says he has bought the shop in Dines Green, which had been empty for three months, to provide a service for people who have to trek into St John's to place a bet.

The businessman said the addition to his Ombersley Road shop opened just before the Grand National, but gamblers nearby didn't know and went elsewhere.

"The main problem is the shop has been closed for so long and we're having to claw business back," he said.

"But it's been a bookies for many years and the man managing it for me, Sid Hudson, owned it about 12 years ago.

"I think it's nice for the locals to see a familiar face."

Mr Mason's son and daughter also work for the family business, set up 18 months ago.

"The shop has had a lot of different owners but I plan to stick at it," said Mr Mason who lives in Mayfield Avenue.

"I hope the extension of my business will be as successful as my first."

Steve Mason Bookmakers can be found on the car park of the Mayflower pub in Dines Green.