7-year-old Brits Gambling At Marbles

Children as young as seven in Britain are turning into gamblers by playing marbles. Rather than just betting on each other's marbles, the kids involve cash leading many to steal to pay off their debts.

Parents have complained to the police as how their children owe money by betting on the games, which have further led them to steal cash, DVDs and computer games to pay off.

Groups of upto 40 youngsters play the game, called Pits, which involves lifting the covers on water meters outside homes and flicking marbles into the hole.

"Historically this game would involve winning each other's marbles, but it has come to our attention that more and more children are playing each other for money," the Daily Express quoted the Plymouth police community support officer Dan Amador as saying.

"I am worried that children as young as six or seven could be causing themselves unnecessary stress due to owing money to their friends."

"If the money is not available to them, it could push them into shoplifting or fights. They need to be aware of the dangers gambling can cause."

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According to police officer, children as young as seven have run up debts between 20 and 30 pounds to fellow players.

"We fully support the police and schools in tackling this situation by helping young people to understand the problems that introducing money into a game will cause, and what to do if they are feeling threatened by a situation involving money," Director of housing and neighbourhoods for Plymouth Community Homes, Sue Shaw said.

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Source-ANI