Branded the ‘Voice of Newmarket’ Lorna Bradburne successfully juggles her presenting roles as the paddock commentator at the home of UK flat racing, Newmarket and working on Racing UK with being the Editor of the Thoroughbred Business Guide.
After studying English and Classics at Glasgow University Lorna has spent time living in Yorkshire and London before a move to the racing town of Newmarket three years ago. With a unique road system for racehorses, surrounded by manicured gallops, the town centre is a vibrant meeting place with a mix of both modern and traditional shopping outlets.
“I absolutely love Newmarket, I have a good group of mates, the lifestyle here is great. There are lots of opportunities to go running and walking with my dog Peaches. The day has an early start as I ride out for Nick Littmoden most mornings,” explained Lorna.
From a racing family Lorna added: “I could ride almost before I could talk, I was always mad keen and was a member of the pony club and went eventing but racing was always what I wanted to do.”
Based in the paddock at Newmarket on race days Lorna appreciates that people go racing because they want a good day out, to back a winner and wear a smart outfit. She said: “Racing people are up for having fun, they are in a good mood and the atmosphere is great, on a big race day the buzz is fantastic. Dressing up and making an effort brings out the best in people.”
Selecting the right footwear to finish off a race-day ensemble is crucial when attending at a race meeting. Lorna’s view is: “If you want to look good comfy shoes are out. I would rather wear heels and feel I look my best. Sometimes in the winter you have to be more practical, but only to a degree!”
The right frame of mind at a busy racecourse enhances the day. “Relax and be patient,” suggests Lorna. “There might be some queues and it’s helpful to find a place to meet up, if you are in a group some people like to go to the paddock to look at the horses, others go to have a drink or do their own thing, having a central meeting place helps a successful day.”
Looking ahead lucky Lorna is appreciative. “I’ve learnt a lot since university, I got a lot wrong at first but I wouldn’t change anything. I’ve learnt from experience not to try too hard, I’m not a walking form book but I understand racing and horses, I keep on the ball, I love the sport so it’s not hard as I have passion for the job.”
Interview by Jan Green
Lorna wears: Classic fit ribbon-tie jacket with fluted sleeves and leather corsage pin, 100% pure wool, available in duck egg blue (pictured), yolk yellow, salmon pink, £180. Draped front-flared sleeved top with ribbon ties at the back, silk and Viscose, purple and brown, £75. Knee-length fit and flared skirt, 100% pure wool, £90. All from Essex-based designer www.claudettejoseph.co.uk
Photographs by Graham Flack.
Allison is the Publisher of Eclipse Magazine. She loves going to the Races and is learning to bet (despite being officially the worst bettor in the History of the Universe), there’s a lot more to learn…
