Husband and wife team spot an opening for game site

George and Eli Whillock believe Eurocadabra can grab a major slice of the “skill-based” internet competition market. Prizes on offer include Spanish property, luxury cars, holidays and watches.

George, 65, said the decision to go live with the site followed two years’ of planning and development work.

Players need to use their skill and judgment to try to pinpoint the centre of the ball, having chosen from a variety of sports, including golf, tennis and volleyball.

A number of charities also stand to benefit from the venture through dedicated competition draws and a “ticket affiliate” programme.

Belfast-born George, who spent 37 years based in Scotland and now splits his time between the UK and a home in Majorca, said: “We were originally looking at a way of moving property in a depressed market but the whole thing has widened out considerably.

“Eurocadabra enables people to win prizes they’ve always fantasised about, be they large or small.”

He added: “A lot of money and a lot of time has been devoted to launching this venture.”

The Scottish-registered business will be run out of offices in Scotland, Germany and Spain.

The Whillocks’ portfolio of companies has included mineral water, property and hotels. Wife Eli used to co-run Glasgow’s famous Buttery restaurant.

Among the companies now working with their latest venture are Currencies Direct, Stewart Travel and Taylor Wimpey Espana. Mappin & Webb and Watches of Switzerland will supply high-value watches and jewellery.

Eli said: “Your chances of winning are better because it’s all about skill, not the luck of the draw.

“All our competitions are based on a ‘first come, first served’ basis and on a strictly limited ticket allocation.”

She added: “We can help struggling charities at the same time.”