Cooper is the man to carry on the good work at 'magical' Cartmel

With less than a week until the transfer window slams shut, Cartmel has unveiled a new signing from Manchester United.

No, they've not snapped up Alexis Sanchez before he's even put on a red shirt. Rather they have plucked Steve Cooper from Old Trafford to take the place of Jonathan Garratt, who has left for Kelso after six years.

Previously head of catering and service delivery at Manchester United, Cooper is actually returning to racing, having spent six years with Jockey Club catering, and has taken on the expanded role of managing director racing and leisure, with responsibility for Holker Hall and Gardens plus two holiday parks at Old Park Wood and Longlands.

Cartmel stages a £130,000 raceday in JulyCredit: John Grossick (racingpost.com/photos)

"Racing is my passion," he said. "I've been to most courses and even the Dubai World Cup however I am yet to experience racing at Cartmel and I can't wait for the first meeting on May 26.

"I think it is a truly magical place, there is a high level of responsibility at Manchester United but the responsibility to maintain the heritage and unique experience here at Cartmel actually weighs more on me!

"I am dealing with people day to day who have the venue in their heart – at Holker Hall and Gardens and the holiday parks as well as the course. Whenever anyone talks to me about Cartmel they have a smile on their face, as though they are protecting or nurturing a secret that evokes such happy memories."

Cooper has no plans for dramatic change at a course which offers record prize money in 2018, with a £130,000 raceday on July 1.

"You would never spoil it but at the same time you have to evolve everything to make sure it stays vibrant and interesting," he said.

"It's important we carry on the good work of Jonathan who has done a wonderful job in improving the standard of racing and the track."

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