Epsom Downs Racecourse and Jockey Club Racecourses are pleased to announce that Nick Blofeld has been appointed managing director of Epsom Downs Racecourse, writes Angela Harcombe.

He succeeds Stephen Wallis, who recently moved across the group to manage Newmarket Racecourses.

Since Wallis's departure in December, Blofeld has been acting managing director at Epsom Downs and has now been appointed full time.

Prior to taking over the role, he had been commercial director at the track for three years.

Blofeld said: "It is a wonderful opportunity and I am thrilled to accept this appointment.

"Epsom Downs is undergoing a period of exciting transition, with a new hotel opening this year and the new grandstand well under way and due for completion in spring 2009, when we return to an expanded race programme.

"The grandstand will be a great addition and meet ever-growing customer expectations of Epsom Downs, and provide the standard expected of a modern day leisure venue for race and non-racedays.

"I am also looking forward to announcing sponsorship details for the 2008 Derby Festival in the near future."

Anthony Cane, chairman of Epsom Downs, said: "Nick has been an integral part of the Epsom Downs team as commercial director for the past three years and I am delighted that he has accepted the managing director position. I very much look forward to working with him."

The 2008 Derby Festival will be run at Epsom Downs on June 6-7.

As part of the new structure at Epsom Downs, Andrea Chapman has also been promoted from brand manager to marketing manager, in recognition of her excellent work in promoting racing, conference and events businesses over the past three years.