Gaming tycoon Baron Steinberg dies

NORTH WEST-based betting tycoon and Tory peer Baron Steinberg has died at the age of 73.

He died suddenly in London last night after travelling to attend a House of Lords session.

Born in Belfast he founded Stanley Leisure in 1958 a single betting shop. He moved to the North West in the late 1970s after he was shot by the IRA and initially in Sale, before later moving to Hale Barns.

Stanley Leisure – which was based in Liverpool was sold its betting shops in 2005 and then its 45 casinos to Singapore-based Genting in 2006.

His 50-year business career earned him a fortune estimated at more that £100m.

A Conservative Party donor even before his peerage in 2004, Leonard Steinberg was an active member of the North West Jewish community and a benefactor to good causes.

His major passion was cricket and since 2007 was president of Lancashire County Cricket Club.

Even in his 70s, and after selling the business, he remained active in business. Last summer he joined US gaming technology group Electronic Game Card as chairman.

He is survived by his widow Beryl, two children and six grandchildren.

Conservative leader David Cameron led the tributes saying: “Leonard was a popular and active member of the House of Lords, and a good friend to the Conservative Party.

“He regularly offered me his sage advice and words of wisdom, which were always gratefully received.”

Jim Cumbes, chief executive of Lancashire CCC described him as a “great figurehead”.

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