'It's a good opportunity to make changes' - two officials step down at Catterick

It was definitely out with the old and in with the new at Catterick where the two most senior officials stood down after racing, having spent more than 45 years at the helm between them.

The track's traditional New Year's Day meeting was the last at which Fiona Needham acted as general manager, a post she has held since October 2008.

John Sanderson also gave up the role as managing director, to which he was appointed in 1991.

But neither is gone for good, as Sanderson remains a director and Needham will continue as clerk of the course.

In their stead Emma Stevenson, who is currently sales and marketing manager, has been promoted to general commercial manager and current director James Sanderson will assume the role of Catterick chief executive, whilst continuing in a similar capacity at Thirsk.

Needham was given a presentation in the winner's enclosure and said: "I've had a wonderful time here and I've got on really well with John."

Pointing to the new developments all around the parade ring, she added: "You can see we've been here!"

Sanderson, who is chief executive of International Racecourse Management which runs Catterick, said: "We're most grateful for all that Fiona has done for Catterick racecourse over the past 14 years and delighted she has agreed to continue as clerk of the course."

Referring to his own standing down, he said: "With Fiona going, it's a good opportunity to make some changes. I'm not getting much younger!

"I've thoroughly enjoyed it. I started my racing career at York and had 20 years at that wonderful racecourse but I've always been very fond of Catterick. For many years I used to look on Flat racing as my employment and jumping as my hobby."

Sanderson was awarded an OBE in 2013 and added: "As I said to Her Majesty when she kindly gave me a gong, I've been very lucky. I've been at it for over 40 years and I've enjoyed myself."

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