The Rank Group has seen an upsurge in visitors to its casinos in the UK so far this year, which have benefited from longer opening hours and a range of operational improvements.

Overall, the group reported a four per cent like-for-like growth in revenue for the 16 weeks to April 18, 2010. During the same period, total group revenue increased by 10 per cent.

Grosvenor Casinos delivered a nine per cent increase in like-for-like revenue, which was driven by a seven per cent rise in customer visits and a two per cent improvement in spend per visit. Total revenue grew by 16 per cent, while customer visits were up 19 per cent.

The company said that the performance reflects the additions to its casinos estate in 2009, which generated above-average levels of visits but lower average spending.

"We remain on track to achieve our target of 20 G Casinos operating by the end of 2012. Later this month, we will relaunch our Brighton casino under the G Casino brand; and our Newcastle-upon-Tyne casino will be relaunched in May.

"The Group has made a positive start to the year with revenue growth in each of its four businesses. In an uncertain economic environment we remain focused on providing our customers with valued and enjoyable leisure experiences."