GBPT TV dates

The Great British Poker Tour has been winding its way across the UK for some weeks now, and as it draws to a close, organisers have announced details of the event’s television coverage.

Former England Test cricketer and ‘King of the Jungle’ Phil Tufnell is to front GBPT broadcasts airing on ITV4 from 4 October.

The Tour, which has so far covered legs in Edinburgh, Teesside, Nottingham, Bournemouth and Leeds, showcases the abundance of poker talent across Britain to form a series of 12 one hour shows, hosted by presenter Alex Jones.

Tufnell and poker pro Simon ‘Aces’ Trumper form a double-act to provide expert analysis on the show.

And for you poker celebspotters out there, Michelle Heaton of Liberty-X, Doug Henshall of ITV1’s Primeval, Norman Pace from comedy duo Hale & Pace and an array of well known sports stars have all taken part in the GBPT.

Tufnell, a keen poker player, commented: “I am really excited to be involved with the GBPT. I’ve really got into poker recently and I try and play as much as I can. Poker really is a game that anyone can learn. I’ve entered several tournaments in the past and not done too badly. I even released a DVD last year to teach people how to play so hopefully I can bring my knowledge and experience of the game to the viewers.”

Seasoned poker pro, Simon Trumper added: “Viewers will be amazed at the standard of play. There’s some very dramatic hands which make for great television.”

ITV4 Channel Controller, David Fewings, said: “We’re looking forward to having The Great British Poker Championship on ITV4 this autumn. The popularity of poker is growing every day and I’m sure this will be a fantastic contest.”

And there is still time to get involved and maybe book your place on the show, as the GBPT Grand Final takes place at the Gala Casino Harbourside, Bristol from 5-11 November, with a £650,000 prize pool up for grabs.