Sir Philip Davies succeeds Russ Wiseman as chairman of Star Sports Group

Davies joins Star Sports after nearly 20 years as the member of parliament for Shipley and will aim to build on a strong period of growth for the company.

Ben Keith, founder of Star Sports, said: “I want to thank Russ Wiseman for all the personal and professional support he has provided us over the last two years and totally respect his decision to stand down wishing him a speedy return to good health. I look forward to continuing mine and Star’s effective working relationship with Russ in 2025.

“We are delighted to be announcing Philip as our new chairman. He has a wealth of experience and is a valuable addition to our senior management team. We look forward to learning from him over the coming years.”

On his appointment, Davies said: “I am delighted to be joining Star Sports at such an exciting time in the company’s history. I have been lucky enough to get to know Ben [Keith] over the last few years and I have huge admiration for the business that he has built.

“Not many know that I started my working life in my mother’s betting shop (Marilyn Davies Bookmakers), so the industry is very much in my blood. I’m hugely looking forward to working closely with Ben and his management team to fulfil the group’s growth strategy and commitment to operating responsibly.”