Exeter Racecourse committee member helps bring hit ITV racing series back to screens

A Devon-born television producer and Exeter Racecourse committee member is celebrating the return of her acclaimed ITV series Champions Full Gallop, which returns back onto screens on Friday 17 October at 10pm.

Mel Leach, who divides her time between London and Devon, has long been involved with Exeter Racecourse, helping to promote jump racing in the South West while continuing her TV career as joint CEO of South Shore Productions.

Filmed during the 2024–25 jump season, the series follows jockeys, trainers, grooms, and stable staff, showcasing the dedication, skill, and emotion that fuel Britain’s traditional sport.

According to Mel, “racing is the most uncelebrated sport in Britain. The jockeys, trainers and horses are incredible, yet few people outside the sport realise just how much passion and commitment goes into it. My job is to make them famous.” 

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The show has drawn comparisons to Formula 1’s Drive to Survive, highlighting both the high-profile personalities and the unsung heroes behind the sport. 

Among the series’ standout figures is jockey Harry Cobden, described by Mel as “Hollywood with charisma, humour, and world-class talent all in one.” 

The programme also showcases stables like that of 14-time Champion Trainer Paul Nicholls, whose Somerset yard features prominently thanks to unprecedented access granted to the production team.

Mel has had a long connection with racing. Growing up in Ivybridge, she attended point-to-point races with her father and was at Wincanton in 1988 when Desert Orchid was unexpectedly defeated. She continues to support grassroots racing, regularly attending spring point-to-points at Flete Park in South Devon.

Mel rode as a child with the Dartmoor Pony Club, competing on her Anglo-Arab mare, Blachford Irene. Her daughter, Velvet, also competed in equestrian events, while her son, Rocky, is a professional rugby player.

Now splitting her time between London and Devon, Mel continues to champion Exeter Racecourse, where she serves on the committee. 

“Exeter is special,” she said. “It’s one of the most beautiful and honest racecourses in the country. The atmosphere here captures exactly what makes jump racing so unique.”

Jack Parkinson, General Manager at Exeter Racecourse, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have Mel on our committee. Her experience, passion and commitment to the sport shine through in everything she does, and Champions Full Gallop is a brilliant example of that. It’s fantastic to see someone with such strong local roots helping to bring National Hunt racing to a wider audience.”

Exeter Racecourse is a key centre for jump racing in the South West, hosting both national events and local fixtures. Its historic grandstand and scenic location make it a notable venue for racing in the region.

The racecourse also plays a key role in supporting grassroots racing, from point-to-points to community initiatives, keeping the sport accessible for newcomers and long-time fans.

With the series back on ITV, Mel hopes it will inspire new audiences to engage with the sport. “If someone watches the programme and decides to come racing at Exeter, that would make everything worthwhile,” she said.

Exeter Racecourse’s next meeting is on Tuesday, 21 October, PricedUp Best Mate Chase Day, celebrating one of jump racing’s greatest icons. Attendees can enjoy a day of live action, with the opportunity to bring a “best mate” for free and soak up the unique atmosphere of the city’s historic racecourse.