RACEGOERS will be able to make the most of the Cheltenham Festival in Hexham today.

For Hexham Racecourse will host its Cheltenham Festival Raceday to coincide with the famous event in Gloucestershire.

There will be 101 horses entered in seven exciting national hunt races. Gates will open at 11.55am, with the first race at 1.55pm. The last race of the day will take place at 5.50pm.

Racegoers will also be able to keep abreast of activities at Cheltenham via TV coverage at Hexham.

It is the start of a busy season for Hexham Racecourse, which celebrates its 130th anniversary this year.

In line with all racecourses, Hexham is taking measures to protect people from the spread of coronavirus.

Racing organisers are working closely with the Government, and public health advice will be prominently displayed at Hexham.

Guidelines include regular washing of hands, and antibacterial gel being provided at the venue.

A statement published on the Hexham Racecourse website said: “The safety and welfare of racegoers and participants is paramount to us. We hope everyone has an enjoyable and successful day’s racing.”

For more information visit hexham-racecourse.co.uk.