[scrawnybob]

Statement from Paradise Poker

"Sportingbet will retain the Paradise Poker business, but will, with effect from 11.00am UK time, 13 October 2006, cease taking deposits from US resident customers.

To allow for an orderly wind down of the US Paradise business, Paradise Poker will remain open for US customers for real money poker play utilising their existing account balances for one month. At the end of the month long period, US residents will be prevented from playing real money poker at Paradise. In addition, the Board has taken immediate steps to prevent customers from ten US States where there is law prohibiting internet gambling from playing real money poker at Paradise Poker.
The Group will continue to market Paradise Poker in Canada, Europe and other relevant markets whilst maintaining its "dot net" free to play site for all customers."