Michael Owen joins the Jockey Club as 'ordinary' member

Racehorse owner and former England international footballer Michael Owen has been appointed as a new member of the Jockey Club.

Owen, who owns Manor House Stables in Cheshire and whose horses have included the popular Group 1 winner Brown Panther, was among eight new members named by the Jockey Club, which has also elected Lady Carolyn Warren and William Wyatt to its board of stewards.

Jockey Club senior steward Sandy Dudgeon said: "We're delighted that Lady Carolyn Warren and William Wyatt are joining the Jockey Club's board of stewards and I'm very much looking forward to working alongside them both.

"In addition we also welcome eight new members who share a passion for horseracing and its future and bring a wealth of experience in different fields which I am sure will prove a valuable support to the Jockey Club."

Charles Barnett, whose long career in racecourse management includes stints as chief executive of Ascot and managing director of Aintree, has been made an honorary member of the Jockey Club.

Among those joining Owen as 'ordinary' members of the Jockey Club are Dan Richmond-Watson and Duncan Sykes, the chairmen of Warwick and Exeter racecourses respectively.

They are joined by Simon Hope, the owner of Aston Mullins Stud and Racing Welfare trustee, and owner-breeder and publisher Rebecca Philipps.

Katie Kershaw and Dickon Wood, who are racecourse committee directors at Epsom and Carlisle respectively, complete the new intake.

Dudgeon added: "Members are elected on account of their contribution to horseracing and a willingness to help the Jockey Club achieve its vision of acting in the best interests of the long-term good of the sport.

"We remain very grateful to all those who give their time in a non-executive capacity. The Jockey Club is very fortunate to be able to draw upon their dedication, knowledge and experience."

Last week it was announced Owen was splitting with trainer Tom Dascombe, while Andrew Black, the part-owner of Manor House Stables, is planning to sell his share of the operation to Owen.

Read these next:

Paul Struthers to leave role as Professional Jockeys Association chief executive

PJA chief accepts Bryony Frost was bullied rather than 'felt bullied'

Win the ultimate Cheltenham Festival experience in the Racing Post Christmas Countdown. You and three friends could travel to the festival in style with helicopter transfers from your hotel. Simply place a bet on the Racing Post app this Friday to be entered into the prize draw, plus there are weekly prizes to be won. Find out the full details here.