Leicester stalwart and music nights pioneer Nick Lees dies at the age of 83

A minute of silence was observed at Leicester before the first race on Wednesday in memory of Captain Nick Lees, the former chairman of the racecourse and creator of music nights at Newmarket, who has died aged 83.

Lees fulfilled many roles in a long career in the sport, from jockey to clerk of the course, auctioneer, director, managing director and chairman of many racing companies and committees, but it was Leicester with which he was most closely associated.

Chairman Marc Nelson said on Wednesday: "It is with deep sorrow that we heard of Captain Nick Lees' death last night. Nick had been chairman at Leicester for 15 years and a director for over 50 years, retiring nearly a year ago on December 31 2021.

"Nick has been highly influential in the racing industry and his racing knowledge and wise words were always sought after. He was always great company and was never short of interesting and amusing anecdotes. Our thoughts and deepest sympathy are with his family at this difficult time. He will be sorely missed."

Clerk of the course Jimmy Stevenson said: "I have very fond memories of Nick. He was one of a kind – a true gentleman, a loyal employer who was always fair, he had a great sense of humour and was a font of all knowledge when it came to racing.

"Nick was a kind and generous man and never acted in haste – he had a natural gift to remain calm in a situation and make make well thought out decisions. He was always there for people and he was never too busy to take time to support staff. Nick's positive attitude was well known and he could always turn a dark day into sunshine.

"I will always be grateful to Nick for all that he did for me. My heartfelt condolences go out to his wife Jos and daughters, Sophie and Lottie."

Lees conceived the music night concept when he was at Newmarket, where he hosted the first post-racing gig in 1987. He was also one of the first on the scene when the plane carrying Frankie Dettori and Ray Cochrane crashed between the July and Rowley Mile courses in 2000.