Oxfam hopes for Federer Wimbledon win after man leaves bet in will

While the nation roots for its first British Wimbledon champion in 76 years, one charity could be hoping that Federer takes the title.

Oxfam is set to collect £101,840 if Federer wins tomorrow, in a payout from a wager staked nine years ago.

Nick Newlife bet £1,520 in 2003 that the Swiss tennis legend - who then had just one Wimbledon title - would win seven or more times.

Bookmakers William Hill offered Mr Newlife, from Oxford, odds of 66/1.

Mr Newlife died in 2009, aged 59, bequeathing his entire estate - including the bet - to Oxfam.

The charity estimates around 12% of its income is from legacies.

William Hill spokesman Rupert Adams said: "Mr Newlife showed the most astounding foresight placing this bet almost 10 years ago and that the fact that Oxfam will benefit if his prediction proves correct just adds to the fantasy nature of this wager.

"This will be one of the very rare occasions that we will payout with a smile on our face."

William Hill is currently giving odds of 13/8 for Murray to lift the trophy, with Federer at 8/15.

The bookmaker has previously said tomorrow will be the biggest tennis match in its 78-year history and a win by Murray will prompt a £5 million industry payout.

Mr Adams added: "If he lifts the trophy we will probably have the worst day of tennis betting in our long history, with a probable industry payout of £5 million."

PA