NEWMARKET Racecourses and Jockey Club Racecourses today announced Epsom supremo Stephen Wallis has been appointed as their managing director. He will succeed Lisa Hancock who, as previously announced, is standing down in November in order to spend more time with her young family.

NEWMARKET Racecourses and Jockey Club Racecourses today announced Epsom supremo Stephen Wallis has been appointed as their managing director.

He will succeed Lisa Hancock who, as previously announced, is standing down in November in order to spend more time with her young family.

Mr Wallis is currently managing director of Epsom, where he has worked since 1994.

He will work closely with Lisa Hancock in the final weeks of the current season to ensure a smooth handover, while also retaining an involvement with Epsom Downs in leading the search for the next sponsor of The Derby Festival.

Ric Hambro, chairman of Newmarket, said: “I am delighted that Stephen has accepted the role of Newmarket's managing director. Lisa will be a hard act to follow, but I am confident that the course will continue to flourish as Stephen builds on her considerable achievements.

“Stephen has overseen the revitalisation of The Derby to great effect and his experience, communication skills and rapport with all sectors of the racing industry will hold him in good stead in his new role.

“Newmarket is growing and evolving and, following the successful introduction of the new facilities on the July Course, together with our continued commitment to staging quality racing, there are many reasons to be excited about the future of the racecourse.”

Mr Wallis said: “I am very much looking forward to the challenge of succeeding Lisa at Newmarket. I have enjoyed my time at Epsom immensely and only an opportunity as exciting and inspiring as the role at Newmarket could have tempted me away.