NORTHERN Racing has wished Simon Lee, Executive Director of both Chepstow and Hereford Racecourses, all the best for the future after his appointment as Stadium Director of Glamorgan County Cricket Club.

The 47-year-old has been at the Welsh racecourse for almost five years, initially as General Manager before being promoted to the boardroom. He added Hereford Racecourse to his remit last year.

Tony Kelly, Group Managing Director of Northern Racing, the company that owns the two racecourses, said: "Simon has done a tremendous job since arriving in the spring of 2004. In that time the business has become substantially stronger, both in terms of horse racing and the growing events and conference market.

"We wish Simon all the very best in his new position at the cricket club."

Simon, who lives near Monmouth, joined Northern Racing from the Celtic Manor Resort where he was marketing director. He has also worked at the Millennium Stadium and Newport Rugby Football Club.

He said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here. I was new to the horse racing industry in 2004 and have learned a great amount. Now I am looking forward to a new challenge of managing the operational aspects of the cricket club which will stage an Ashes test for the first time next summer."

Northern Racing's Operations Director Julie Harrington is handling the task of finding Simon's replacement.

Photo by Robert Hughes