CX Project helps James Ewart Racing produce more winners
Located in a stunning setting in a bowl of the Langholm Hills, James Ewart Racing is a fine example of a successful local business.
James and Briony Ewart converted part of the family cattle and sheep farm into a racehorse training business in 2004 and the expansion of the business since that time has been impressive. The team at James Ewart Racing now trains more than 50 horses and is increasingly producing winners, including home-bred champions. With jump race winners already in the bag, they have recently celebrated their first winner on the flat. Over 100 winners have been sent out from the stables at Craig Farm. They have been keen to innovate, introducing a TapetaTM track, the first training track of its kind in the UK.
Briony Ewart explains how the CX Project has been instrumental in part of the expansion: “When we needed a horse box and mobile stables, the CX Project’s help was really important. The grant provided enabled us to house 4 additional horses which required 2 extra members of staff. The horse box is a tremendous asset – it is custom designed for us. The team travels many miles in taking the horses to races all over the country so this is an essential piece of equipment.
“We are keenly aware of the value of our business to the local economy and it is very satisfying to be able to take on more staff. The business is dependent on the skill and cohesion of the team; it’s the people who make our business a success. Recently we have appointed a great book-keeper in Amy Glendinning and a talented young farrier from Lockerbie, Kenny Little. Kenny’s skill is already helping us improve the horses’ performance. Wherever possible we like to use local suppliers, especially when they are of high calibre.”
The CX Project was also able to refer James Ewart Racing to the Business Gateway’s High Growth advisor.
Councillor Colin Smyth, Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Economy, Environment and Infrastructure Committee, said, “It is important for Langholm that new businesses emerge to take the place of older industries. James Ewart Racing is an example of a Langholm company that is doing very well and is known nationally.
“This willingness to innovate, to expand and to employ local people and local suppliers is great for our economy. A thriving economy in Dumfries and Galloway is our Council’s priority too and I hope the CX Project can support more business in the area to expand and succeed.”
John Grierson, Magnox’s Site Director at Chapelcross, said, “I am pleased to see that the CX Project has been able to support a business to expand and which has then been able to take on extra staff. I hope the success of James Ewart Racing inspires other businesses to approach Bev and Don for assistance.”
If your business is in Annandale and Eskdale and you want to know how you can receive advice and assistance from the CX Project, telephone 01387 273996, email [email protected] or check the website www.cxproject.co.uk
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