William Hill, the UK's largest bookmaker, has been granted non-restricted gaming licences by the Nevada Gaming Commission.

A non-restricted licence is the highest tier of licence in Nevada. Accordingly, completion of the previously announced impending acquisitions of American Wagering, Brandywine Bookmaking and the racing and sportsbook assets of Sierra Developments, trading as Cal Neva, is now expected to occur on June 27 for a consideration of approximately $49m.

Ralph Topping, chief executive of William Hill, said: "We are delighted to have been awarded our licence to operate in Nevada. This now enables us to establish William Hill's first ever US operation, an important part of our international growth strategy.

“We will now bring together these three businesses to create a leading position in the Nevada sports betting market, combining our brand and product range with AWI's, Brandywine's and Cal Neva's extensive Nevada footprint, strong local relationships and trusted service.”