Nigel Payne to leave role as PJA chairman at end of June

Nigel Payne has announced he is to step down from his role as chairman of the Professional Jockeys Association (PJA) after eight years.

Payne, who has worked in a variety of positions in racing since the 1970s, including as press officer at Aintree racecourse for the Grand National, and in positions at Ladbrokes, the International Racing Bureau and SIS, will leave his role at the end of June.

He has also been chairman of the Sir Peter O'Sullevan Charitable Trust since 2002 and is well known as one of the owners of 1998 Grand National winner Earth Summit.

Payne's time as chairman has seen significant developments at the PJA, including the introduction of a non-runner fee for jockeys and a dedicated and comprehensive mental health network.

There has also been a significant increase in commercial income for the jockeys' body, along with major rule changes such as the introduction of flexible suspensions and adjustments to apprentice and conditional jockey pay.

Speaking of his time at the PJA, Payne said: "I feel that after eight years I have achieved as much as I can, although it is of course for others to judge these achievements.

"I joined the PJA shortly after Paul Struthers became chief executive and together we have taken great strides in strengthening the Association and its standing in the industry.

“I have seldom enjoyed a role more and I have been very proud to represent our jockeys at the various industry committees and forums over the years. It has been a true privilege and I have made many friends among the jockey ranks and look forward to continuing those friendships.”

BHA chief executive Nick Rust and Struthers were among those to acknowledge Payne's work.

Rust said: “Our relationship with the PJA is constructive and positive, and that in no small part is a result of the leadership Nigel provided, supported by Paul and the other executives. We'll miss working with Nigel, but wish him well with his next steps.”

PJA chief executive Struthers said: "Nigel has been a fantastic support for me and the team and has been a passionate advocate for our members and the work the PJA does. He will be missed by all the team.”

Paul Struthers: 'Nigel has been a passionate advocate for our members'Credit: Edward Whitaker

There were also tributes from leading jockeys PJ McDonald and Tom Scudamore, who both have active roles with the PJA.

PJA Flat president McDonald said: “I was very sad to hear Nigel was standing down and he will be sorely missed.

"I’d like to thank Nigel for all he has done for the PJA and its members and it has been very much appreciated. He has been a big help to me personally and I wish him all the best.”

Scudamore, PJA board member, said: “I would like to thank Nigel for all of his hard work over the last eight years with the PJA. I'm very grateful for all he has done for jockeys, and I’ve seen the PJA go from strength to strength under his chairmanship and with all the work from the PJA team.”

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