Ambitious plans to transform the historic Towcester Racecourse will be headed up by the newly-appointed general manager Mick Conneely.
The multi-purpose venue is seen as a “sleeping giant” by Mick who will manage all aspects of the entertainment hub in the new era, with plans to attract major events and community projects.
He will also oversee the development of key partnerships with businesses, charities and community groups as part of Towcester Racecourse’s commitment to providing an inclusive venue for everyone.
This latest mission comes after the venue was placed into administration in 2018. A year later it reopened after businessman Kevin Boothby signed a ten-year lease to return greyhound racing to the 310-acre site.
Mick joins with a varied background in the sport and hospitality sectors. He was a football coach at Coventry City FC’s Sky Blues in the Community for a decade and more recently has co-run two restaurants and cafes in Coventry. Before that, he was a director at Coventry Stadium and boasts a strong track record in the delivery of greyhound racing.
He described Towcester as “Northamptonshire’s best kept secret” and wants to bring the good times back by reconnecting it with local people.
“The potential at Towcester Racecourse is phenomenal and I am really pleased to be onboard and part of this exciting new era,” said Mick. “Our foremost ambition is to make Towcester the go-to venue for events, conferences and live entertainment plus private parties and weddings.
“We have got everything here that any business with major ambitions could wish for – a talented team, picturesque surroundings in a good location and facilities which can transform Towcester into a true seven-day-week multi-purpose hub for all occasions.
“It is our county’s best-kept secret, and it is time we showcase this to the wider public.”
Major events this summer include the English Greyhound Derby, Towcester Food Festival and the Classic Car and Bike Gathering. Facilities include a restaurant, bars and private hospitality spaces, luxury VIP boxes and a fishing lake. Plans are also in place to develop a state-of-the-art greyhound veterinary centre as part of the venue’s commitment to providing world-leading standards of care.
A partnership with the Frank Bruno Foundation has also been formed to deliver free non-contact boxing programmes which support
To page 3 >>
>> From page 1
individuals experiencing mental health problems to aspire towards a brighter future.
Mick added: “Kevin has invested a personal fortune in bringing this venue to life, and we are committed to doing this for many years to come. We want people to experience the wow factor when they come to Towcester Racecourse.
“It has been a sleeping giant for many years and now we want our customers to have a great night at the greyhound racing or take advantage of the hospitality facilities we can offer.
“It is promising to be a busy summer and we are excited to welcome guests through our doors.”