Rank veteran cashes in his chips

Jennings will leave the business "to pursue other opportunities" on 17 August, the company said, "with the board's appreciation and thanks" for his long tenure.

Chairman Ian Burke said: "I would like to thank Clive for all of his hard work and dedication to Rank over the past 18 years. Clive has led the finance team through a number of complex acquisitions and regulatory changes and the Board wishes him well in his future endeavours."

The board said is beginning the search for a successor and will provide an update when appropriate.

Jennings said he had "thoroughly enjoyed" his time with Rank, which in May welcomed new chief executive John O'Reill, former Ladbrokes' digital boss.