Customers of the newly opened Rio Bingo in Wisbech have shared their joy at the venue’s resurrection, telling the BBC that they “couldn’t wait to get back.”

Previous operator Winners Bingo closed the hall unexpectedly in July, however Rio has revitalised the Art Deco site as a community hub.

“We’re so glad it’s back up and running,” assistant manager Zuzana Moravcikova told the broadcaster. “We’ve been so upset for the customers and for us, as staff.”

“It’s amazing to see all the old customers back, and some new faces as well. It does feel like a family, and I’ve always said that.”

Customer Jill Martin said “it’s so friendly here, we love it, they make us feel so much at home,” while Jenny Badcock added “I couldn’t wait to get back, and it helps to just get out of the house and meet all your friends.”

Looking ahead, Rio is exploring ways to continue cutting the cost of bingo for Wisbech players, while investing in marketing to attract new customers.

“We’re thinking of new ideas, what we can do to bring new customers in, and some sessions we can maybe do things a bit different, to bring the younger customers,” said Moravcikova. “I feel with all of that, it could be looking good, and I have a good feeling
about it.”