BHA turns to South Africa for head of stewarding with Shaun Parker appointed

Shaun Parker has been appointed by the BHA as the new head of stewarding, bringing to an end the drawn-out two-year search for the person responsible for raceday regulation.

Parker will leave his role as chairman of stewards for the National Horseracing Authority (NHA) in Durban, South Africa on October 31, but no date has been set for when he will take up his new position.

The appointment of Parker, who spent a period stewarding in Britain during the 2006-07 season, concludes the lengthy process of replacing former jump jockey Paul Barton as head of stewarding.

Barton, who has held the role since 2013, announced his intention to step down at the end of 2017 but has remained in place while his replacement was being found.

Barton farewell begins as head of stewarding works on course for the last time

BHA chief executive Nick Rust said the appointment was "imminent" in July before the post was readvertised last month, with Brant Dunshea, the BHA's chief regulatory officer, admitting the process had encountered obstacles.

Unveiling Parker as the head of stewarding on Thursday, Dunshea said: "British horseracing is a world leader among racing nations, and it's crucial its most senior steward is of a calibre worthy of the role.

"That is exactly what we have with Shaun – not only does he have an appreciation of the rich history of British racing having previously worked here, he also brings with him extensive experience as a leading regulator with a major international jurisdiction, and a genuinely international reputation.

"Our thanks go again to Paul Barton, who has recently retired from the role, for his years of dedicated service to the sport."

Parker's exit was confirmed by the NHA on Thursday morning, and a statement said: "The National Horseracing Authority wishes Mr Parker every success in his new position abroad."

Parker, who has more than 24 years experience as a steward, takes over as head of stewarding as the BHA continues to roll out its 'one team' model of raceday stewarding, in which the make-up of racecourse panels is weighted towards professional stewards employed by the sport's governing body rather than the traditional honorary volunteer stewards.

Read The Lowdown from 8.30am daily onracingpost.com and the Racing Post app for all the day's going updates, news and tips