1946 - Football Pools Reel Under World War II

During the Second World War, the Post Office deems pool coupons as non-essential items and refuses to deliver a large number of them. Football pools are driven to the verge of ceasing operations. Littlewoods hands over most of its properties to be contributed towards war efforts. Nevertheless, the companies continue throughout the war, but on a smaller scale. Many people – supporters and opponents alike – opine this could be the end of the business for good. However, proving all of them wrong, a Unity Pool organisation is created by the end of the war. It brings together seven of the largest pool companies to produce joint coupons instead of offering their own. Vernons, Zetters and Littlewoods team up. Football pools spring back to business with the revenue increasing more than ever.