William Hill Chief Departure Planned

The chief executive of William Hill, Britain's biggest bookmaker announced he is leaving the company. For this decision David Harding gave two reasons: his son and the challenge.

He intends to go further on businesses but having new provocative and spectacular projects that will allow him also to enjoy spending more time with his son. His quit is expected by the end of 2007, after seven years of working as chief for William Hill.

In 2004, Mr Harding sent William Hill's share price falling when he cashed in almost all his stock options to help finance his divorce. He and his partner are the parents of an adorable two year old boy and leaving the company will allow them to spend more time as a family.

Mr Harding worked at Scottish Amicable before being head hunted by William Hill.Due to his forward thinking, professionalism, and experience, William Hill turned into Britain's largest bookmaker in 2005. It seems that acquiring the rival chain Stanley Leisure for £505m was the big hit that paved the way to the top.