AFTER nearly four years away, jump racing returns to Hereford this afternoon.

Between 3,000 and 4,000 racegoers are set to attend the historic occasion, with seven races taking place throughout the day.

It will be the first time that jump racing has taken place in Hereford for four years and today’s meeting will feature a number of county stars.

Champion jockey Richard Johnson will be riding in the first race at 2pm in the National Hunt Novices’ Hurdle aboard Beau Du Brizais, while Tom Scudamore will be riding 5/1 joint second favourite Daklondike.

Aidan Coleman will be also be appearing in that race, while trainers on the day include Paul Nicholls, Nicky Henderson, Jonjo O’Neil, Tom Symonds and Kerry Lee.

“It’s great news that it is being reopened and I’m looking forward to the day,” said Johnson, who claimed his first ever winner at Hereford in 1994.

“I’m sure it will have a lot of support — the racing world is certainly happy that it is back.

“My first ever winner was at Hereford and it’s obviously a very special racecourse to me seeing as it’s my local one.

“ARC [Arena Racing Company] have put a lot of money into it and a lot of businesses are on board.

“It’s great for the county and the city of Hereford to have it back.”

Johnson will also be aboard Lost in Lecce in the second race of the day, the 2.30pm National Hunt Maiden Hurdle.

His other races will be the 3.40pm Handicap Hurdle, when he will be riding Exotic Friend, the 4.15pm Silver Salver Handicap Chase (No No Mac), the 4.50pm Handicap Chase (Boss in Boots).

Going to the racing today? Send us your pictures to pro@herefordtimes.com