Mystery as head of integrity Chris Watts leaves BHA after four-year spell

Mystery surrounds the departure from the BHA of Chris Watts, who had been head of integrity at racing's ruling body for the last four years.

A BHA official confirmed Watts is no longer employed by the regulator, but declined to offer any further comment as to the reasons for his departure, or to reflect on the service he had provided.

Multiple sources during the summer indicated to the Racing Post Watts was not carrying out his functions as normal, but the BHA declined to address the matter at the time, citing employment confidentiality.