Footballers Supporters Against Gambling Adverts is a campaign group that includes recovering gambling addicts and families bereaved by gambling-related suicide.

The group has started more than 20 petitions.

It is now hoping to secure over a million signatures and wants clubs across the country to terminate all existing gambling partnerships and pledge to reject future deals.

"Nowhere is gambling's pernicious presence felt more than in football, which acts as the 'hook' that draws young, first-time gamblers in, setting them up for a lifetime of addiction," read a statement from the group.

On 4 July, the Premier League asked clubs to vote on whether to introduce a voluntary ban on gambling sponsorships on shirts before potential government intervention.

Half of last season's top flight teams had betting sponsors on their shirts.

The Premier League has backed plans for clubs to voluntarily phase out gambling sponsors over three years, but any change in league rules would need 14 of the 20 clubs to vote in favour of it.

A government white paper setting out plans to tackle problems in the industry was meant to be published on 21 July, but it was delayed due to the Conservative leadership election.

The document was already being held up in Downing Street because of senior Tories - including those at the Treasury - opposing further regulations on businesses.

But MPs who have been watching the white paper closely said that, despite the plans being ready to publish, Number 10 will not go ahead while Boris Johnson is only in the post as a caretaker prime minister.

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Almost half of Premier League clubs, including Newcastle United and West Ham, were sponsored by betting companies last season, although the Magpies are likely to secure a replacement for Fun88 after the coming campaign.

Last season's other shirt sponsors included SpreadEx Sport at West Ham, Hollywood Bet at Brentford andSportsbet.io at Southampton.

Everton and Bournemouth recently signed new shirt deals with betting firms, while London club Crystal Palace dropped theirs in favour of a car dealer.

Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK