In 1975, many stable staff at Newmarket were members of the Transport and General Workers Union (TGWU).

It was settled but many strikers were not allowed to return to their jobs despite the settlement including a no victimisation clause.

[1] Disillusioned with the TGWU, many broke away to form the Stable Lads Association, the idea for which was Viv Baldwin's who enlisted John Oaksey and Jimmy Hill to help set it up.

The organisation then renamed itself as the National Association of Stable Staff, and within three years increased membership to 2,000.

[5] It was based at Bretby Business Park, north of Swadlincote on the A511, in South Derbyshire.