Racecourse groundsman retires after nearly 50 years

Barry Mason has worked as a groundsman at Newbury Racecourse for 47 years

A groundsman at a prominent Berkshire racecourse said he was "looking forward to a bit of a break" after nearly five decades of service.

Barry Mason has tended to the track at Newbury Racecourse for 47 years.

On Saturday, staff gathered to celebrate his lifetime achievement, with chief executive of the racecourse Shaun Hinds saying they were "incredibly grateful" to him.

Mr Mason said he had "a few plans" for his retirement and was looking forward to being able to watch the action from the stands at Newbury "for the first time".

Speaking about his last day at the racecourse, he said: "[It] hasn't really sunk in yet. I've really enjoyed it but it's quite sad at the same time.

"I got quite a few things planned and I'll be able to come here to the stands for the first time ever. I just love horsing racing anyway."

'Phenomenal' contribution

Mr Mason said he had made a lot of friends over his time at the racing venue, adding there had been "a lot of banter".

Racing director and clerk of the course George Hill praised the groundsman, saying he had "dedicated his entire life" to the racecourse after first joining the staff in 1978.

"Everything he's contributed over those 47 years is just phenomenal," said Mr Hill.

"The amount of work that has gone into the track over those years and the changes Barry has seen, how the racecourse has evolved over time, it's magnificent.

"We're very proud of what he's achieved and he should be too. He will be missed, luckily he lives very local and we'll see him on some race days."