RECORD crowds of 50,000 people turned out to Chester Racecourse over the weekend for two major events.
Managers at the Roodee racecourse say the impressive amount of visitors on Friday and Saturday evening were up from figures recorded last year.
On Friday an estimated 14,380 visitors showed up, which was up four per cent up from the figure set in 2009.
The rise in visitors was attributed to a number of “exciting” events on offer, including the world’s first ever ‘pink’ horserace celebrating female jockeys and horses.
The pink racing event aimed to raise £25,000 for Breast Cancer Care Pink Mile, which had been arranged by the racecourse and Racing for Change. Chief executive of Chester Race Company Ltd, Richard Thomas, said: “We have had an absolutely amazing weekend here at the Roodee. To have 50,000 here over the two days is great. Everyone I’ve seen has really enjoyed their day at the races.
“It is credit to the team here at the racecourse that we consistently provide race goers with a great experience.”
He added: “Now we’re getting ready for our biggest event of the year, Sunday Funday on August 1.”
The evening also included the Best Dressed Couple competition, hosted by Darren Jeffries and Matt Littler who used to play Hollyoaks favourites Max and OB for more than 10 years.
Golden Square Shopping Centre provided the prizes for the competition worth more than £2,500. Later in the evening a crowd of flash mob dancers performed to the tune of Lady Gaga in front of the County Stand.
Meanwhile, an impressive crowd of 36,174 racegoers showed up on Saturday, up more than 12 per cent from last year.
Head of marketing and communications, Rob March, said: “This weekend really has provided something for everyone. The glamour of the Best Dressed Couple competition, the surprise flash mob dancers on Friday, wags and soap celebrities, record crowds and two days of really exciting, nail-biting racing action.”