Patton takes command as managing director at Jockey Club Estates

Jockey Club Estates training grounds manager Nick Patton has started the new year under the grander title of managing director of the organisation after being promoted to succeed William Gittus.

Patton has been a familiar figure on the Newmarket gallops for the past six years, during which time he has taken on a similar role at the Jockey Club's sister operations at Lambourn and Epsom.

Promoted only last year to assistant managing director of the Jockey Club's land management and property arm, Patton is to retain his gallops role in succeeding Gittus, who is to become group property director.