Online gamblers in the UK are to be able to take advantage improved services as a new gambling portal aimed at providing better information and an industry certification scheme are starting to take effect.

Casino-x-change, an online gambling portal, states that all the sites accessible through it have been fully tried and tested by its staff and as a result it seeks to offer unbiased reviews for the online gambling community.

Alexander Sharpley, managing director of Casino-x-change, said that finding the best sites can be difficult and the new site will help to combat this.

He added that it will cater for gamblers who are interested in a range of games, such as blackjack, baccarat, video poker, roulette, slots and craps.

Along with the reviews, it is hoped that by the end of the year the site will also provide a forum facility.

The company hopes that this will allow the site to "turn into a popular hub for a vibrant community of online gamblers," said James Daniels, head of public relations at Casino-x-change.

In addition, it was also reported this week that ten online casinos had been awarded the Play It Safe seal by the eCommerce and Online Gaming Regulation and Assurance's (eCOGRA) board of directors.

This announcement brings the number of casinos that hold the eCOGRA seal to 66.

Ismael Diagne, business strategy manager for Mini Vegas, the company that operates the websites, said: "There is significant value in the eCOGRA initiative in terms of increased business efficiency and as a highly professional vehicle to prove our commitment to superior service and fair gaming for the player."