Ownership needs to be promoted intensively in regional campaigns

Tom Kerr's investigation on how to arrest the decline in ownership(May 21) is on target, although he omitted to mention one area in which I believe urgent action is needed: promotion of ownership.

I am not referring to promotion of racing, which GBR and the racecourses undertake quite successfully. I am referring to the need for intensive regional PR campaigns to promote ownership directed at specific socio-economic groups of individuals, companies and clubs, targeting both racegoing enthusiasts and those with little knowledge of the sport.

The marketing strategy should include full use of the national and local press, TV and radio stations, social media and direct marketing techniques. Marketing support should also be provided by racecourses and the Horsemen’s Group through their contacts, websites, blogs, social media and newsletters.