New study finds Lambourn contributes more than £20 million to local economy

Horseracing contributes more than £20 million a year to the Lambourn area and is responsible for almost one in three jobs, according to a study which local MP Richard Benyon says underlines the importance of the sport to the region.

The report, commissioned by Jockey Club Estates and West Berkshire District Council and undertaken by economic and social researchers SQW, showed Lambourn and close-by parishes East Garston and Great Shefford benefited from racing to the tune of £22.6m, and the sport was also responsible for the equivalent of 754 full-time roles, 30 per cent of an estimated total of 2,500 jobs in the area.

House prices on the rise in Lambourn

The study also identifies the challenges faced by finding suitable housing for staff and increased traffic, stating: "House prices in the study area are consistently higher than for England as whole; typically 30-40 per cent more."

Benyon, Conservative MP for Newbury, said: "The research shows us we have £30m [plus Newbury racecourse's contribution] a year of inward investment from this industry. It is one of the largest local employers, with nearly 800 direct jobs and many more in the supply chain."

Figures from SQW's report

The increase in the number of horses using the Lambourn gallops after JCE took over the management in 2006, was also noted. "Our objective is to attract as many owners, trainers and horses to Lambourn as we can and to further build on the progress made in recent years," said Nick Patton, managing director of JCE.

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