Former Weatherbys managing director Harry Lott dies, aged 85

Harry Lott, who was a pivotal figure at Weatherbys for more than 20 years, has died at the age of 85.

Lott, who joined Weatherbys in 1973, was managing director during a time of great change at the company, with the firm's relationship with the Jockey Club and then BHB formalised, the revolution in the supply and publishing of racing data and the launch of Weatherbys Bank. He retired in 1996.

Company chairman Johnny Weatherby said: "Harry brought dazzling commercial acumen to Weatherbys and definitely helped lay the foundations for the successful business we have today.

"He was a formidable operator and negotiator and had a transformative influence on the firm. He always kept an eye on how the business was going from his retirement in France and both Roger [Weatherby] and I are deeply sorry he will not be helping Weatherbys celebrate 250 years of business in 2020."

Extra Curragh fixture

An additional afternoon Flat meeting has been scheduled at the Curragh on Tuesday, October 22. Entries will close by 12pm on Thursday, October 17, with declarations to be made by 10am on Monday October 21.