'We're out on a limb' - Chepstow calls for easing of Welsh crowd restrictions

Chepstow has joined forces with other sporting venues in Wales to encourage the Welsh government to lift restrictions and let crowds return.

Wales is set to become the only part of the UK where sport continues to be staged behind closed doors following the decision to ease outdoor restrictions in Scotland from Monday.

First minister Nicola Sturgeon announced on Monday that measures capping attendance at 500 for outdoor sporting events would be removed, with a further review set for January 24.

Scottish courses will now join England in welcoming back racegoers, with Kelso set to host the first meeting post-restrictions on February 3, and Chepstow executive director Phil Bell is hopeful Wales will soon follow suit.

"The fact that England and Scotland are both allowing crowds to sport does leave Wales a little bit out on a limb," Bell said. "All the professional sports clubs in Wales have gathered to liaise with the government as a united front.

"There's been regular discussions for the last couple of weeks and we were told at the weekend that the next ministers' review would be January 20.

"There was a call on Monday with the minister of the economy to stress the impact of our finances in the current situation, particularly off the back of Chepstow losing the Welsh National, which is our biggest fixture of the year. We're doing all we can to encourage the powers that be to let us have people back.

"We're worried about not just the current meetings behind closed doors, but also that the restrictions are holding people back from booking for meetings in the coming months.

"In light of what Scotland have decided it's the sooner the better really, because every week that goes by with more uncertainty means people are concerned and hesitant about booking."

Musselburgh: relief at decision to ease restrictions in ScotlandCredit: John Grossick (racingpost.com/photos)

In Scotland there has been a sense of relief at Musselburgh and Kelso over the government's decision after several meetings were held behind closed doors.

Musselburgh chief executive Bill Farnsworth said: "We had the most dreadful start to the year with no crowds on what is a very important festive period at Kelso, Musselburgh and Ayr.

"Not having spectators on New Year's Day or the bank holiday Monday cost us in the region of £200,000. We couldn't sustain that for very long and it's a big step in the right direction."

The final Scottish fixture to be held under the current restrictions will be at Kelso on Sunday, one day before crowds will be able to attend.

"It's a little disappointing the news doesn't come in time for our fixture on Sunday," said managing director Jonathan Garratt. "It's a shame because there's some lovely horses entered for Sunday. Our annual members will get to see them but sadly they'll be the only ones.

"We're hoping that people will turn out in large numbers for our March meetings, including the bet365 Morebattle Hurdle and the Racing Post Go North weekend. It's been a long time. We haven't had crowds at our March meeting for two years now, so it will be a welcome change."

Kelso Sunday card

Read these next:

Boost for Scottish racecourses as crowd limits to be lifted from Monday

'It's disappointing' - Newcastle all-weather feature attracts just three runners

Follow your favourites with our amazing Horse Tracker feature. Add up to 1,000 horses to your stable, filter them and keep up to date with automatic email alerts. Join Members' Club Ultimate now and never miss a winner again!