Winning post for man who revived sport

The former Bass sales director was brought in by A&S Leisure Group and Sheffield Wednesday chairman, Dave Allen, after Dave bought the lease for Owlerton Stadium in the early 1990s.

At the time, the Stadium was ranked 21st in the country and greyhound racing was in decline. Now, the Stadium is the third most profitable greyhound stadium in the country and the most successful outside London.

Under Mr Proctor’s leadership, the track has attracted a new and younger audience and record- breaking crowds, has won many awards and has successfully launched new corporate facilities as part of a 3 million investment.

His successes include ensuring lucrative daytime races were broadcast through the world’s betting shops with the Bookmakers Afternoon Greyhound Service contract.

Mr Proctor has helped to ensure racing greyhounds end up in loving homes at the end of their racing careers. As a director of A&S Leisure, he played a part in the success of Napoleons Casinos, the UK’s largest independent casino operator.

“I’ve had a brilliant time at Owlerton Stadium,” he said.“I have to thank the work of the dedicated staff here and the co-operation of the greyhound owners and trainers. I would have achieved nothing without their help and support.

“I’ve been in a very privileged position in terms of being able to give back to the community: Owlerton Stadium has raised over 1 million for good causes in the past 14 years and I’m glad to say that work will continue.”