The new manager of Cartmel Racecourse has been revealed.

Geraldine McKay, who formerly ran Carlisle Racecourse, has been appointed at the South Lakes venue.

She steps into the role following the departure of Holker Racing and Leisure managing director Steve Cooper in June.

Mrs McKay said: “This is a very special role and one I’m thrilled to be taking forward.

“There’s something very different and unique about Cartmel - it’s a one-off - and the heritage and tradition of racing here is something I’m keen to protect.

“Horse racing is the beating heart of Cartmel and will remain so. It provides fantastic opportunities in northern jump racing for owners and trainers based across the region and further afield.

“Everyone loves coming to this course.”

Mrs McKay previously spent more than four years at the helm of Jockey Club-owned Carlisle Racecourse.

Her tenure included overseeing the highest attendance for a music event when artist Jess Glynne performed there in 2017.

She was also instrumental in the introduction of the Northern Lights racing series at Carlisle as well as the development of the UK’s only all female jockey’s fixture.

Since leaving last year, Mrs McKay has run her own business, working to help promote and develop firms throughout Cumbria.

She added: “I have really enjoyed my time working with businesses over the past year-and-a-half.

“But the opportunity to lead the team here at Cartmel, a fantastic independent course in Cumbria, was just too good to miss.”

Mrs McKay, who will relocate from Cockermouth to Cartmel in the coming weeks.

Holker Group chief executive Allen Gibb said: “Geraldine has a wealth of experience not only in the racing industry, but in working to bring out the very best in high profile businesses.

“Geraldine’s enthusiasm is infectious and we look forward to working with her as she puts into place her vision for Cartmel - to preserve its very special character, keep horse racing at its heart and develop the experience of an unsurpassed day out at this course for our owners, trainers, jockeys and racegoers.”