Moves to bring spectators back at Doncaster Racecourse

Officials cannot yet open the gates of the course to fans after Doncaster was placed into tier three restrictions by the Government at the end of the November lockdown.

But they have confirmed they are now looking at bringing racegoers back when Doncaster’s coronavirus rates fall to level two levels, which would permit up to 2,000 spectators to return.

Rachel Harwood, the executive director at the racecourse said: “The confirmation that Doncaster and South Yorkshire is in Tier Three means that we, sadly, are required to continue to race behind closed doors for the time being.

"We will however, continue to work with the local authorities and get our plans in place so that we can safely welcome spectators back to the racecourse as soon as we possibly can.”

There have been not spectators at the venue since September, when Doncaster was used to run a pilot scheme for bringing back crowds at racecourses, as part of a Government backed plan.

The project was initially intended to run for all four days of the St Leger Festival.

But it was scrapped after the first day because of concerns over rising infection rates in the borough at the time.

Some racecourses, those in areas covered by tier two restrictions, are set to see spectators return this week.

The Government plans to review the tiers on December 16.

The first races to return this time look to be this week, with courses including Aintree, Cheltenham, Exeter allowed to admit spectators.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.