“?Councillors meeting last night voted to put Carlisle’s name forward as a venue for one of 17 new casinos to be opened as the Government relaxes gambling laws.

“?A report from the council’s director of development services, Catherine Elliot, said a casino could attract tourists, create jobs and support an up-market hotel.

“?The city’s name will now go forward to a panel advising the Government on where the new casinos should be.

“?The plans include one super casino, which would be likely to be in Blackpool, and 16 others across the country?”