The Bingo Association has confirmed that this year’s National Bingo Week was a “brilliant” success, with the annual event delivering a 16 percent increase in venue footfall thanks to a focus on bringing generations together.
Celebrities such as Vanessa Feltz, Duncan James, and 17 MPs marked the occasion by visiting their local clubs, while a nationwide charity game generated £20,000 for Variety, and one lucky winner at Mecca Gateshead claimed a £100,000 jackpot.
“This year’s National Bingo Week went to new levels – shining a brilliant light on the contribution that bingo makes to our communities,” said BA CEO Miles Baron. “It truly is a generational game and that is evident with the age of attendees in bingo clubs up and down the country.”
“Although age and lifestyle can sometimes feel like barriers, the desire to spend meaningful time together is something we all share – even if we’re not always sure how to bridge the communication gap. It’s why we wanted to shine a light on a pastime that brings people together regardless of age.”
During the campaign, Baron joined the recently crowned Bingo Caller of the Year 2025, Issy-Mae Hunt, on regional radio to promote bingo, while BBC Breakfast devoted a segment to exploring the inter-generational appeal of the game, which in turn was featured on Celebrity Gogglebox on Channel Four.
Further celebrity interest was provided by Vanessa Feltz, who debated the question: Bingo – Is it brilliant or boring? on her Channel 5 daytime talk show, only to visit Mecca Bingo herself and declare bingo was her “new favourite pastime.”
Blue’s Duncan James also popped in to Buzz Bingo Feltham, posting via Instagram “there really is something for everyone there. It is one of those games that brings people together of all generations.”
Daniel Francis MP also paid a visit to Buzz Bingo Bexleyheath, Andrew Western MP joined customers at Club 3000 Old Trafford, and Johanna Baxter MP accepted an invitation to Mecca Bingo Paisley, with 27 more MPs expressing plans to visit clubs in the coming months.
“Bingo has always been more than just numbers,” added Baron. “It’s about connection, conversation and community. Whether you’re 28 or 88 it’s one of the few social activities that everyone can enjoy together.”
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