Carlisle Racecourse appoints Helen Willis as new general manager

Helen Willis will take charge at the Durdar track in July to replace Molly Dingwall, who is moving to Haydock Park.

Willis has been working for the Jockey Club for 15 months and, since February, has been a trainee general manager.

That has seen her working across major racing events including the Cheltenham Festival, the Grant National and the Epsom Derby.

She previously worked for the Jockey Club as a customer relations executive and, beforehand, worked as racing secretary to Group One-winning trainer Bryan Smart in North Yorkshire.

Willis is a graduate of Bishop Burton College in East Yorkshire, where she obtained a first class degree in Equine Business Management.

She has spoken of her delight at landing the coveted Carlisle job.

“I am thrilled to have secured the role of General Manager at Carlisle Racecourse," Willis said.

“Having gained experience across the group, I have greatly enjoyed my role as trainee general manager this year.

READ MORE: Carlisle Racecourse general manager Molly Dingwall leaving to take charge at Haydock Park

"I am extremely grateful to everyone I have had the pleasure of working with for all their invaluable help and guidance.

Molly Dingwall is leaving Carlisle after four years to take charge at Haydock Park (photo: David Hollins)

“Carlisle holds a unique place in the Jockey Club as its most northerly venue and with a strong local support base. I am relishing assisting the racecourse’s continued development in the times ahead.”

Dickon White, regional director of the Jockey Club North West, said Willis was the ideal person to continue the good work of Dingwall.

“Helen has been a very valued team member since joining the Jockey Club last year," he said.

“With her experience across the group and the wider racing world, I am sure she is exactly the right person to continue to take Carlisle forward and further build on the excellent progress made by Molly Dingwall over the past four years.”