Newmarket horse racing brings more than £250 million a year to the local economy, a new report reveals.

The thoroughbred horse racing and breeding industries (HRI) brought in £256.2 million to Newmarket and a 25-mile radius in 2022.

East Anglian Daily Times: The thoroughbred horse racing and breeding industries (HRI) brought in £256.2 million to Newmarket and a 25-mile radius in 2022.The thoroughbred horse racing and breeding industries (HRI) brought in £256.2 million to Newmarket and a 25-mile radius in 2022. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

A new independent report commisioned jointly by Newmarket's HRI and West Suffolk Council shows the national and international significance of the industry.

The economic contribution equates to approximately 7,033 jobs, although the direct employment figure of 3,285 has returned to 2012 levels, an indicator of "some of the wider economic challenges which continue to impact the thoroughbred industries".

East Anglian Daily Times: The economic contribution contributes to approximately 7,033 jobs.The economic contribution contributes to approximately 7,033 jobs. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

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Councillor Susan Glossop, cabinet member for growth at West Suffolk Council, said: "As we know, Newmarket is a globally recognised centre for the horseracing industry and one we are very proud to have and support here in West Suffolk.

East Anglian Daily Times: Demonstration at the British Racing School on Thursday, March 9.Demonstration at the British Racing School on Thursday, March 9. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

"This report informs the positive partnership we have with this unique industry and helps us to deliver together further growth and take opportunities to level up and grow Newmarket's economic contribution."