...Press Release...

May 8, 2008

Problem Gambling Foundation supports world record attempt

Alistair Galpin has Guinness World Records™ for wearing the most pairs of underpants and for getting the most hugs. He also holds 26 other records.

Now he is at it again.

At 7am on Friday morning he will begin an attempt to beat the world record of 54 radio interviews by a two person team in a 24 hour period.

Mr Galpin is being supported in his effort by the Problem Gambling Foundation and will make problem gambling the subject of many of his interviews.

Problem Gambling Foundation CEO John Stansfield will pair up with Mr Galpin for the record attempt and says it provides the opportunity to highlight the damage to our families and communities being done by pokie machines.

Mr Stansfield says he will also be using the time on air to let people with gambling problems, and those affected by their behaviour, know that help is available.

"Gambling problems can be overcome and the rate of success among people who seek help is high," he says.

"We want to tell people that free and confidential help is just a phone call away.

"They don't need to keep living with the stress and difficulties that accompany a gambling problem."

Mr Galpin and the Problem Gambling Foundation worked together last year in setting a record by dropping five pokie machines from a helicopter on to a landfill.

Mr Stansfield says that Mr Galpin's record attempts tend to be seen as a bit of fun but there is a serious underlying message.

"We are asking radio stations in New Zealand and around the world to play a part in dealing with gambling harm by phoning in for an interview on 09 3690 693 between 7am Friday May 9 and 7am Saturday May 10."

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