Senior Steward Welcomes Security Review Report

Published: 1 July 2003

Julian Richmond-Watson, the new Senior Steward of the Jockey Club, said today following publication of Report of the Security Review Group:

“I would like to thank Ben Gunn and all of the Review Group for the time and effort they have put in to produce such a thorough and substantial report. Their findings will provide the foundation on which the future of racing’s security function will be built. The recommendations give us the opportunity to reinforce our existing security set-up so that racing is best placed to meet the assessed challenges in a thoroughly professional way.

“As yet I have not had an opportunity to discuss the Report in detail with my fellow Jockey Club Stewards and Directors. The findings and recommendations will be considered by the Regulatory Board at our next meeting later this month. However, it is reassuring and good news for racing that the Security Review Group did not find evidence to substantiate the claims and allegations made on television last year denouncing the integrity of the sport.

“The completion of the Report means that we are now in a position to initiate the recruiting of a new Director of Security. As recommended by the Review Group, this will involve an open advertisement followed by a transparent selection process. I anticipate the successful candidate being charged with the task of overseeing the implementation of the Report’s recommendations.

“Obviously we will have to discuss with both BHB and the Levy Board the provision of finance for the Report’s recommendations. Thankfully, through their representation on the Review Group all parties will have a comprehensive understanding of the problems and issues involved.

“Finally, I would extend my personal thanks to both Ben Gunn and John Essery for their hard work and dedication in compiling the Report. I believe racing has been very fortunate to draw upon their extensive experience in law enforcement, which, married to their interest and passion for racing, has produced a document which I’m sure will result in the sport being better placed to deter and deal with threats to its integrity and will serve to increase public confidence.”

1st July 2003