Bookmaker Hackett dies at 75 The death has occurred of leading independent bookmaker Cyril Hackett. He was 75. Hackett started off in County Offaly with a single betting shop in 1965 and, together with his wife Monica, built up a sizeable chain to over 50 outlets. The business has been streamlined recently including the sale of some shops to Paddy Power last year. Hackett's sponsored races at a number of Irish racecourses including Kilbeggan and the Irish Cesarewitch at the Curragh. He is survived by his wife Monica, who enjoyed success as an owner with the Paul Nicholls-trained Natal, their sons John, Paul, Mark and Philip and daughter Emily.
