New racecourse boss can’t wait for a full house
BRIAN PRAISES PREDECESSOR AT VENUE AS HE TAKES UP THE REINS
THE new boss of Uttoxeter racecourse has said he would be “elated” to fully reopen the venue next month.
Brian Barrass has been named as the venue’s new general manager. He takes over from David Macdonald, who was in charge for 14 years.
Mr Barrass became the chief accountant at the racecourse in 2015, working as Mr Macdonald’s right-hand man. Now he is in the top job, he can’t wait for the country to get back to a semblance of normality when, it is hoped, the Government agrees to move to stage four of its road map on July 19.
Mr Barrass said: “David had a very successful 14 years. Since I started in Uttoxeter in 2015, he gave me the perfect opportunity to grow and develop. I can only thank him for the help he gave me.
“David is a good friend and he told me before he left that it is my time to shine. Also, he is still close to the racecourse, so if I ever need advice I know that he is just one call away.”
Mr Barrass spoke about the difficulties of running the racecourse during the pandemic and that he cannot wait to reopen to a capacity crowd.
He said: “We’re currently opening under restrictions. It feels like we are getting back into the groove of things but we are crossing all fingers that Boris will allow a full capacity crowd from next month.
“But we can only follow the guidance that is given to us by the Government.
“The simple fact is we want to get back to racing and we want everyone to be back. We have our Ladies’ Day coming up on July 23 and that is always a highlight for me and everyone who works here.
“We know there is going to be a stretch when restrictions are lifted and we have a period of getting back to normality and opening up. That is my main focus at the minute. I have some ideas for development over the next few years but we have to be optimistic.
“July 19 is key and I know that so many other businesses in Uttoxeter will agree with me on that.”
Mr Barrass is passionate about the return of live music and other events to the racecourse. He said: “For Ladies’ Day we have the presenter Rylan Clarkneal doing a DJ set, which should be very popular.
“We also have had the Kaiser Chiefs in the past a few times, plus Spandau Ballet’s Martin Kemp, who will be back next year, as well as 80s icon Rick Astley.
“It is always immensely popular and it is something I am definitely looking to continue. We always look to bring extra value and entertainment to a race day and these live gigs are always fantastic to see.
“We also have our colour run going on next month. This is a 5km-long obstacle course featuring dry paint. It is always great fun, you see paint going everywhere and people getting stuck in.
“We also have a personal favourite event of mine which is the Darts Masters.
“Some of the best players around will be coming to the racecourse and all funds from the evening will be going to the Burton Albion Community Trust.
“I feel very proud to be in this position. I am really looking forward to getting the racecourse back to normal and welcoming everyone back.
“I have been at the racecourse for over five years now and I have really enjoyed myself. Everyone here wants to get back to normal as soon as possible as Covid has made operations so difficult”
“I would be elated to fully reopen next month and I cannot wait to get started.”