seeking advice from any UK gamblers

[vector]

Hi,

I live in the UK and am soon going to be making the majority of my income from online poker. I know that gambling winnings aren't taxable in the UK, but I was wondering how you deal with the Inland Revenue when in this situation.

For instance, although my income won't be taxable, legally I still have to pay NICs, at least as far as I can see (and also, this seems morally correct).

I intend on declaring myself self-employed and setting up a direct debit for class 2 NICs the week I quit my current job (as suggested on the IR website for newly self-employed persons). Then I intend on filling in a self assesment form for each tax year.

I'm really interested in hearing from any other fulltime UK gamblers, and how they have dealt with the Inland Revenue. For instance, where and how (on the self assesment form) do you declare your gambling winnings?

Thanks,
vector

ps: feel free to PM me if you'd rather keep it private.