Horserace Betting Levy Board

The Levy Board announces the appointment of Douglas Erskine-Crum as Chief Executive of the Horserace Betting Levy Board with effect from mid-February 2008. Douglas was Chief Executive of Ascot Racecourse from 1994 to 2007 which, under his management, transformed its profitability, race programme and reputation as one of the leading racecourses in the world. Since leaving Ascot he has been involved with various international development projects. Prior to his Ascot appointment he was in the Army.

Douglas's appointment arises following the sad death of Sir Tristram Ricketts late last year. Since then the Levy Board has undertaken a formal search for his replacement.

Commenting today Chairman Robert Hughes said:

"From an outstanding shortlist of candidates, I am pleased to say that we have chosen someone whom we are confident will admirably fulfil all our expectations in leading the Board's staff and facing the challenges of the future. Through his time at Ascot, where he transformed the fortunes of the racecourse, Douglas has an intimate knowledge of racing and managing change. On behalf of the Board, I welcome him to the post and look forward to working with him".

Douglas Erskine-Crum said:

"Tristram was a close personal friend for whom I had a great deal of respect. I am very much looking forward to this exciting new challenge of working with the Board and its constituent parts to find successful solutions for the future of British Racing".