A new scheme allowing people with a gambling problem to exclude themselves from high street betting shops has been launched in Glasgow city centre.

People will be able to call a confidential helpline and ask to be refused service from any of the 36 shops taking part, regardless of which company runs it.

It differs from previous experience when a gambler could only exclude themselves from one bookmaker at a time and would have to fill in forms for each different operator.

The three-month pilot scheme, which is running for the first time in Scotland, will allow people to choose from today which shops they want to be excluded from, such as those close to their homes or workplaces.

It will only be available to gamblers in the city centre but people will be able to exclude themselves from shops outside that area with participating bookmakers.

The helpline advisor will also be able to give customers information about how to get help, including counselling services.

Malcolm George, chief executive of the Association of British Bookmakers, said: "This is a very important step towards helping problem gamblers in Glasgow stay in control and get the help they need.

"High street betting operators want all customers to enjoy their leisure time and gamble responsibly.

"We also want to help those who may be getting into difficulties and this scheme is a big step forward to achieving that. In addition, it will directly shape the UK-wide scheme that will begin next year.

"We are pleased to be working together with the city council on this project as they are as committed as us to promoting responsible gambling."

Councillor Paul Rooney, Glasgow's city treasurer and chairman of a cross-party group on gambling, said: "We simply don't know enough about how problem gambling affects individuals, families and communities - either here in Glasgow or anywhere else in the UK.

"However, this project breaks new ground in terms of the industry sharing information, both between operators and, crucially, with their regulator.

"Only time will tell if it will offer more effective support for Glaswegians who are struggling with their gambling here and now - but I also want to ensure the city uses this opportunity to gain a better understanding of who finds their gambling a problem, how they try and cope with that and to what extent they are able to bring it under control."