By Chris Story

Last updated at 15:12, Friday, 25 May 2012

Another phase of revamp work has been completed at Carlisle Racecourse.

Richard Clements

More new-look elements on the sporting and social side of the Durdar track will be unveiled on Monday.

They follow another £50,000 injection into the course by owner The Jockey Club – the latest in a string of significant investments.

Upgrades include better viewing facilities for spectators as well as improved conditions for horses, their owners and trainers.

Work has been completed ahead of a busy summer at the city course, with a string of major race meetings on the cards along with some big music names.

A major chunk of the most recent investment – £20,000 – has been spent on installing large-screen televisions in bars, lounges and trainers’ areas.

They will be switched on for race-goers at Monday night’s meeting.

Racecourse general manager Richard Clements said: “This work is the latest stage in our continued programme to improve the race day experience for visitors.

“We’ve spent £20,000 on installing 24 LCD TV screens, along with some redecoration and carpeting. Most of the screens are 47 inches wide. They went in last week.

“It means spectators can watch racing and reruns from here and other courses in the highest quality.

“A further £35,000 has gone on improving the parade ring and fences.”

That work has involved completely digging up the ring, installing drainage then returfing it.

“It looks absolutely beautiful – just like a golf green. It will be shame to let the horses on it for the first time on Monday,” Mr Clements said.

“It had been there 70 years and the topsoil had really compacted. Water wouldn’t go through it.”

Drainage has also been improved at two fences on the course which usually have to be bypassed when wet.

Work has been completed before the summer fixtures. These include the Best of British Race Day on June 4, the Bell and Plate Day on June 27, the Stobart Summer Festival with Madness on July 7, an Olympic-style sports day on July 29 and the Ultimate Ladies’ Night with Radio 1 DJ Sara Cox on August 6.

The first race of Monday’s flat meeting starts at 6.20pm.

Mr Clements added: “We’re hoping a lot of people come down to enjoy these new facilities. It’s a great opportunity to come racing after work.”

First published at 14:08, Friday, 25 May 2012
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk