Betting firm offers 'cash back if he walks' in Pistorius trial

London: A bookmaker has opened themselves up for criticism after controversially offering odds on Oscar Pistorius's murder trial.

‘Trial of the century': Many experts are calling this the trial of the century, as it begins today. Oscar Pistorius admits he shot his girlfriend Reeva, but says it was an accident. File Pic

Somewhat tastelessly placed in the ‘Novelty Bets' section of the website, Paddy Power have come under fire on social media for their ‘gone too far' offering.

Under the title ‘Premeditated murder charge verdict', the bookmaker has offered odds on Guilty and Not guilty ahead of the start of the trial.

The Paddy Power website offered odds of 2-5 for a not guilty verdict, and 7-4 for a guilty verdict.

It read, "Bets void should charge be changed from premeditated murder before verdict. Bets void should mistrial be declared."

However, this latest offering was severely criticised.

Giacomo Poochini was annoyed and tweeted: "Paddy Power hijacking a woman's death to encourage people
to have a flutter on a gimmick market."

Alana Farrell added: "Absolutely vile behaviour from @paddypower. Taking bets on a murder trial verdict is low."

One Twitter user said: "Some of Paddy Power's publicity stunts have been clever/amusing. Just think the Oscar Pistorius one is a step too far. Others will disagree."

Pistorius has admitted shooting Steenkamp several times through the bathroom door, but claims he was acting in self-defence after becoming convinced that an intruder had broken in to the house.

Pistorius has admitted to firing four shots at Steenkamp, 29, hitting her in the head, arm and hip.

Pistorius's trial on charges of the premeditated murder of Reeva Steenkamp begins today and will be televised in South Africa.

>> Firm offers 7-4 odds on a guilty verdict
>> The offer has been severely criticised by public on social media
>> Historic trial will begin today and aired live on TV