Sir Philip Davies named new chair of Greyhound Board of Great Britain

Former MP Sir Philip Davies has been appointed as the new chair of the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB), effective 1 September. He replaces Jeremy Cooper, who steps down after seven years in the role.

Davies, who represented Shipley as a Conservative MP from 2005 to 2024, has been a long-time supporter of the gambling industry. Since losing his seat in the last general election, he has served as Chairman of the Star Sports Group.

“The sport has a very bright future ahead and I would like to thank the GBGB board for putting their faith in me,” Davies said. “I look forward to working with tracks, owners, trainers and our wider stakeholders as we safeguard the future of our sport and ensure it thrives for many years to come.”

He also paid tribute to his predecessor, Cooper, who has led the organisation since 2018. “Thanks to his drive and ambition, welfare standards are greater than ever and, importantly, improving still," the new chair added.

Cooper backed the appointment, calling Davies “a fervent supporter of licensed greyhound racing” and expressing confidence in his leadership. “I know that this appointment will be welcomed across the licensed racing community and I wish Sir Philip all the very best as he begins his tenure," he stated.

The GBGB also announced that CEO Mark Bird will remain in his post for two more years, reversing his earlier decision to retire in April after seven years at the helm.

Davies welcomed the decision, calling Bird “highly respected across the sport and by our many stakeholders in government and the betting industry.”

Bird said his continued leadership comes at an “important time” for the sport, emphasising the need for “stability and continuity.”

The future of greyhound racing faces challenges. Earlier this year, the Welsh government announced plans to ban the sport “as soon as practically possible.” The GBGB has since launched a legal challenge via judicial review.

Despite the situation in Wales, the UK government has indicated no intention to impose a nationwide ban. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy told Parliament recently there are “no plans” to end greyhound racing in England, Scotland, or Northern Ireland.

Davies remains optimistic, insisting the sport continues to play a vital role in communities across the country. “Licensed greyhound racing is a fantastic sport which has held an important place in the fabric of our country for almost a century," he stated.