Gala BingoClifford Chance (CC), Ashurst Morris Crisp and Linklaters are engaged in a bidding war on behalf of three top private equity houses in the race to acquire UK bingo and casino operator Gala.

Ashursts is understood to be advising two established private equity clients, Candover and Cinven, in their joint bid, reportedly valued at more than £1.2bn, to acquire the bingo chain.