ROXBURGH resident Ashley Hogg has just a short drive or even horse ride to work in her new job as Kelso Races’ marketing and public relations manager.
Ashley said: “Racing is big business and is Britain’s second largest sport in terms of crowd numbers, after football, so my main aim is to put Kelso racecourse on the map by attracting more race-goers.
“This will have a positive impact for both the racecourse and the local area’s economy.”
She added: “Kelso racecourse is a fabulous facility, so I want people who have never come to the races before to realise what a warm and friendly welcome they will get at Kelso, and to utilise it also as a venue for weddings, banquets, dinners and conferences.”
After graduating from Edinburgh University, Ashley spent over three years raising the profile of Scottish agricultural charity, the RSABI.
She runs her own small livery yard in her spare time, as well as helping husband Simon run the family farm at Kersmains.
Kelso Races managing director Richard Landale said: “We’re delighted to appoint someone with Ashley’s experience and vision to our team.
“Last year, British racecourses welcomed 5.6million visitors and Ashley, I know, has ambitious plans to ensure that Kelso racecourse increases its share of this number.”
Ashley wants to develop the racecourse as a destination for visitors to the Borders.
She said: “I aim to make a day at Kelso Races one of the must-do activities when people visit. I’ll be working to build new relationships with local businesses which can offer our race-goers some added value to their day out, whether that’s top-class accommodation, a fabulous meal or discounts on other attractions around the Borders.”