THE nine fences have been put in place at Hereford Racecourse as the countdown to the return of jump racing begins.

Preparations are well underway for the first fixture on Thursday, October 6, with groundstaff now cutting the fences to size.

It will be the first time jump racing has taken place at Hereford for four years.

“We’re getting really close now and the excitement is building,” said Rebecca Davies, executive director and clerk of the course at Hereford Racecourse.

“We can’t wait to welcome racegoers back and look forward to opening our gates to the public at noon on October 6 for the first time in four years.”

A total of four meetings will take place at Hereford this year, with other fixtures scheduled for Monday, October 31, Wednesday, November 23 and Monday, December 19.

The first 2016 racegoers that buy a ticket in advance online for the first meeting will receive a complimentary drinks voucher to use on the day.

“We’re thrilled to be bringing racing back to Hereford,” added Rebecca, who has joined Arena Racing Company (ARC) from Cheltenham Racecourse.

“We’ve got four great meetings lined up for 2016 and we’re already planning a busy schedule for 2017, with 11 fixtures next year.

“It has been wonderful to hear about all the goodwill and excitement about the re-opening and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to the course and to celebrate our first winner on the track.”

For more information about the meetings and other events line up at Hereford Racecourse, visit hereford-racecourse.co.uk