ONE of racing’s most recognisable figures, Mike Dillon, is to leave Ladbrokes in July after 46 years. He is the company’s PR director and his name and face has been inextricably linked with the betting firm since he joined in 1972.

Dillon said this week: “Following the merger with Coral and more recently the takeover by GVC, now seemed the perfect time to move on. I’ve had a truly amazing time with Ladbrokes with many great memories and have worked with some fantastic colleagues who made the job such a pleasure for me for so long.

“I have had the privilege of meeting and getting to know some of the most influential people in racing and it has been enthralling to observe their dedication to our sport. But now is not the time to reflect, but a time to look forward and I would like to think that I still have plenty to offer our great sport that means so much to me.”

One of Sir Peter O’Sullevan’s closest friends, Dillon is a trustee of the charity established by the late commentator and author. He is passionate about the work carried out by the fund. In the 1970s he played a pivotal role in revitalising the Grand National at Aintree, one of the sport’s iconic races.