Without doubt most of us will have done the drive through McDonalds or KFC. Some of us will have been to a drive through Safari, like the one in the West Midlands, or a drive through cash machine, or even a drive in movies. Bingo fans in Ireland are tempted with a new innovation - a drive in bingo club.

It is claimed that the smoking ban was the catalyst that started this new craze in County Meath. Reports suggest that all you need is a large field and plenty of bingo players. I am not sure I would agree it is that simple and no doubt many writers are naïve to the legalities of running a land based gambling operation, however it is an impressive concept that would no doubt work here in the UK. I am not sure how successful it would be in the winter months but there would no doubt be plenty of interest in the summer months and those with convertible cars would see further benefits. How nice would it be to play bingo outside without any restrictions, passengers being able to enjoy a drink, no problem with smoking or talking while you play?

Players simply drive into the field, buy their tickets on the way in, find a parking space and turn off their engines. When a player wins they simply hoot their horn and the organisers comes around to verify the ticket and give them their winnings. Drinks and food service can be available and players would simply phone a number, tell the waiter what they want and what car place number they are parked and the drinks and food are delivered shortly after.

Seamus Davis the event organiser says, "It's also a great laugh and there's been a lot of positive reaction. You can relax in your own car with friends or family, have a smoke if you want, and enjoy the game and not worry about parking. It is really catching on, and word of mouth is helping out with this."

It is also taking place in a number of other counties in Ireland, including Dublin and Wexford and clearly as there are low overheads to run such an event the prize money is so much higher.

Mr Davis remarked it’s very easy for the competitors. Just like when online bingo was first introduced in the UK, bingo operators will no doubt see this as a further positive to the industry to attract new players. It is unlikely to pose a threat to the majority of land based bingo clubs and you may even see some UK bingo operators involved.

One UK bingo operator, who wished not to be named, is already looking at the concept and plans to discuss the feasibility with the Gambling Commission in the near future. While they have suggested they are not looking at an all year round plan they did think it was a good concept in the summer months and the company had been following the progress of the initiative in Ireland for a while now. It has also been suggested that online bingo operators may also be keen to try out the idea as a marketing stunt to attract new players.