The man who played a pivotal role in turning round the fortunes of Brighton Racecourse is leaving his post.

Phil Bell was appointed general manager when the course was taken over by Northern Racing in 1998.

With the help of £5 million investment from the parent company and a successful partnership with Brighton and Hove City Council, Mr Bell has helped transform the venue into one of the most popular attractions in Sussex.

He is stepping down to concentrate on revamping Fontwell Park, where he has been general manager for the past two years, since it was also bought by Northern Racing.

Mr Bell, 39, said: "I'm sorry to go but it was my decision.

"I have given six-and-a-half years of my life to the Brighton course and I am very proud of what I achieved."

During Mr Bell's time as general manager, average crowds have risen from 800 to 2,000 and annual turnover from corporate hospitality has leapt from £15,000 to £400,000.

He said: "I feel I have taken the course as far as I can and I'm ready for a new challenge.

"Fontwell Park is a course of huge untapped potential and I really want to put it back on the racing map."

Matt Hudson, Brighton Racecourse's events and venue manager for the past three years, has been promoted to general manager in Mr Bell's place.

Rod Street, Northern Racing's group managing director, paid tribute to Mr Bell's efforts.

He said: "At Brighton and Fontwell Park the commercial operations have matured most successfully under the management of Phil Bell.

"In short, they are now too big to be run jointly. Both racecourses will benefit from having full-time general managers.

"When Phil was appointed general manager the racecourse was in a terrible state.

"Now it is a vibrant part of the Brighton leisure scene.

"When we appointed Phil as general manager at Fontwell Park it was a natural fit and his dual role has worked excellently. But a restructure is now required."