Here’s your chance to get to know Discover Newmarket tour guide, Malcolm Roper.
Prior to becoming a tour guide, Malcolm worked as a quantity surveyor until 1972 when he set up his own construction company. As well as building private homes in Cambridge and the local area, Malcolm’s company was also responsible for the design and construction of a number of Newmarket stables, including Kremlin House, Bedford House, Clarehaven, Fitzroy House and Trillium House, to mention just a few.
Alongside this close association with the homes of racehorses, he also maintained a close association with the racehorses themselves. He used to ride first lot for trainers in the area and one of these trainers took out his licence to ride as an amateur in the National Hunt.
Since joining as a Discover Newmarket tour guide, Malcolm’s trips have always been popular with our guests, so we asked him a few questions to find out more about the man behind the tours:
Q. What do you love the most about horseracing?
A. It is difficult to say. It just gives me that buzz, being involved with the industry and the atmosphere.
Q. Why did you become a tour guide?
A. After retiring from construction, Sarah Jarvis at the Museum asked if I would like to become a tour guide back in 1993 which I accepted. After all you do need a reason to get up in the morning!
Q. What do you love the most about your job?
A. Meeting people every day who are so enthusiastic about racing.
Q. What is your favourite tour and why?
A. The early morning tours of the gallops and trainers yard. Simply because they bring back very good memories.
Q. Where is the most exclusive place you have visited with Discover Newmarket?
A. The Jockey Club Rooms.
Q. Is there anywhere in Newmarket that you would still like to visit?
A. No, I think the present tours cover everything – there is no place we don’t visit.
Q. If you could take anyone on a tour, who would it be?
A. King Charles II, as he would be amazed at the changes over the last 350 years.
To book your Discover Newmarket tour with Malcolm or one of our many other expert guides, call 0344 748 9200 or click here.
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