4,500 race in for fun day

Around 4,500 people attend-ed a family fun day at Southwell Racecourse.

On top of the eight jumps races, there was plenty of entertainment for all the family.
The attendance was around 20% up on last year.

There were Shetland pony rides throughout the day in front of the grandstand and, for the first time, a Shetland pony race.

The race, featuring nine runners on the all-weather surface over five furlongs, went the way of Scarlett Thornton riding Tedworth Of Hardenly.

“The day went very well indeed, with nice weather, a great atmosphere and a big crowd,” said Mr Mark Clayton, executive director at the racecourse.

“I would like to say thank you to all the owners and trainers of the Shetland ponies who raced as well as they brought something extra to the day and got everyone engaged.”

For the adults, on top of the racing, there was the chance to meet former Nottingham Forest star and two-time European Cup winner Kenny Burns, who offered racegoers the chance to have photographs with a replica European Cup and get autographs.

He attended the day raising money for the Help For Heroes charity.

For youngsters, stars of the show were Shaun The Sheep and friends, who hosted the Champion-sheeps on the lawn in front of the grandstand, with a range of activities and games.

There was also a fancy dress competition for children.

The racecourse now shifts it focus on to its biggest day of the year — the Advertiser Ladies Day on Sunday, August 20.

Last year’s event attracted 8,800 people and tickets are selling well for this year.