In a Facebook first for Betfair, we brought Manchester United fans closer than ever to their heroes with an interactive live streamed chat show.

In January 2012 we staged a live and interactive Q&A with Ashley Young, Michael Carrick and Nani on Betfair’s Facebook page, giving fans the chance to engage with their heroes by submitting questions via Facebook and Twitter.

The 30 minute show was streamed live from Old Trafford and hosted by Sky Sports TV presenter Rachel Brookes. Fans were able to watch the action by simply “liking” the Betfair Facebook page, and could submit questions or comments on the wall or by tweeting @BetfairSports with the #MUlive hashtag

The live Facebook broadcast was a first for both Manchester United and Betfair, and brought to life the brand’s role as Official Betting Partner to the club, while increasing interaction (“likes”) with the Betfair Facebook page by more than 36%.

In excess of 1,800 questions were submitted during the broadcast, with the live and on-demand video content viewed by a hugely engaged audience of 50,000 fans. The campaign also proved a hit with print and online media, with more than 100 news stories carrying quotes from the featured players and referencing Betfair’s Facebook page.