On Friday 24 October, members of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Racing and Bloodstock visited Lambourn to see the vital role that British racing plays in supporting jobs and livelihoods within rural communities.

Newbury MP Lee Dillon, Deputy Speaker Caroline Noakes MP, Baroness Dido Harding, and Shadow Gambling Minister Louie French MP joined BHA representatives in the Valley of the Racehorse.

The day started at Nicky Henderson’s Seven Barrows, home to some of the finest jumps horses in training – including Constitution Hill, Jonbon and Sir Gino.

The group observed morning work on the gallops, gaining insight into the workings of a busy racing yard and the process of preparing equine athletes for the racecourse.

Joining the visit was Martyn Brown, political editor at the Daily Express, who spoke to Nicky and the politicians in attendance about the devastating impact that the UK Government’s tax harmonisation proposals would have on communities like Lambourn.

Nicky Henderson with Shadow Gambling Minister Louie French MP and Newbury MP Lee Dillon

The parliamentarians were also welcomed to the Valley Equine Hospital, where they were shown around the state-of-the-art veterinary facilities by Jo Burnett, the practice’s Clinical Director.

This was a chance to see first-hand some of the world-class veterinary care available to thoroughbred racehorses, as well as other equine breeds.

The day concluded with an afternoon at Newbury Racecourse, where chief executive Shaun Hinds explained to the group how the venue was experiencing positive signs of growth, including a welcome uplift in customer numbers.

Parliamentarians were able to experience the thrill of a raceday, including a trip to the start accompanied by former Jump jockey Mattie Batchelor.

Throughout the day, the politicians spoke to a wide variety of people from across the British racing and breeding, who impressed on them the importance of the industry as a major local employer and significant economic contributor.

The BHA Corporate Affairs team is continuing to engage as many parliamentarians as possible in the lead up to next month’s Budget – for more information, visit AxeTheRacingTax.

Martyn Brown’s report from Lambourn is available to read here on the Daily Express website.

From left: Victoria Morgan (BHA), Lee Dillon MP, Shaun Hinds (Newbury), Mattie Batchelor and Caroline Noakes MP