SIMON Howard has confirmed he is stepping down as chairman and chief executive of Castle Howard Estate Ltd at the end of the year, after three decades in charge.

His elder brother Nick and Nick's wife Victoria will relocate from London to the stately home to take over its management as Non Executive Co-Chairman and Executive Co-Chairman respectively.

Simon, who will remain a director, said today: "I was brought up here and for the last 30 years I have made it my life's work to constantly strive to make the house and grounds as enjoyable as possible for visitors.

"I now feel the time is right to pass this responsibility and privilege to my brother Nick, who in turn will prepare the next generation of the Howard family to take on the running of the estate.

"I will continue to play an active role and will work closely with my brother to ensure the success of Castle Howard."

Simon took over as chairman of the company on the death of his father, Lord Howard of Henderskelfe, and has since carried on his father’s work in conserving and restoring the Grade 1 listed house.

Nick Howard said: "Simon has worked tirelessly for Castle Howard. I cannot thank him enough for what he has achieved during his tenure. Were it not for his extraordinary commitment, we would not be in a position to carry on his good work."

An estate spokeswoman said Nick had been a member of the Castle Howard Estate Ltd board since the mid-1970s and had always played an active role in the management of the estate.

"His wife, Victoria joined the board in late 2013, following 13 years as CEO and Publisher of HarperCollins UK and International. She is also a former trustee of both Tate and The National Gallery and in June 2014 became a commissioner of English Heritage.

"Nick’s son, George Howard, will also take a more active role in the business."

She added that Simon and his wife, Rebecca, and children, Merlin and Octavia, were yet to decide whether they will continue to live at Castle Howard.