Camelot has claimed it will “cease to exist” if it can no longer stage the National Lottery draw.

The Gambling Commission announced plans in March that Camelot, which is based in Watford, would lose the National Lottery to Czech-owned Alllwyn Entertainment in 2024.

It has operated the game since 1994, and there has been uncertainty whether local jobs could be affected by the loss.

READ MORE: Camelot set to lose National Lottery licence after 30 years

According to a Daily Mail report, the company is now challenging the regulator’s licensing decision in the High Court.

Watford Observer: The National Lottery. Credit: PAThe National Lottery. Credit: PA

Camelot Global and International Game Technology (IGT) – both sub-contractors of Camelot UK – have issued claims against the Gambling Commission.

According to the report, the lottery firm has argued it will “cease trading” if it loses the bidding rights.

READ MORE: Camelot declines to say whether local jobs at risk from National Lottery licence loss

The Mail says that the company would be expected to sue the Gambling Commission for an estimated £500m in damages.

However Camelot has declined to comment on the matters at High Court.

A spokesperson said: "We are aware of what is being reported, but as the case is subject to ongoing legal proceedings, we can't comment at this stage."

Meanwhile a Gambling Commission spokesperson said it is confident that it has “run a fair and robust competition”.

The hearing continues.

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