Celebrities are helping to raise the profile of poker in the UK, it has been suggested.
Alan Bowden of InsidePoker Magazine said that the sport is one of the few where ordinary people have the chance to take on not only the elite competitors, but also the rich and famous.
"It's a sport that's open to everyone and the celebrity thing gets people involved," he remarked, adding that people find being able to take on the stars on an even keel "inspiring".
Several famous faces hit the headlines for their performances at the World Series of Poker (WSOP) over the summer.
Ex-EastEnders actor Michael Greco reached his first WSOP final table, while snooker legend Steve Davis made it into the money in the main event for the second time in three years.
Australian cricket great Shane Warne also caught the attention of the press for his deep run in the $10,000 No Limit Hold'em World Championship.
Celebrities are helping to raise the profile of poker in the UK, it has been suggested.