HORSE racing in Hereford is likely to remain unaffected by the proposed acquisition of Northern Racing Limited by The Chepstow Race-course PLC.

The Northern Group, which includes Here-ford Racecourse, will become a major subsidiary of Chepstow Racecourse PLC if the proposals are agreed at an EGM on October 10.

Northern Racing Ltd chairman Sir Stanley Clarke said: "From an operational point of view, Hereford would not be affected by the moves.

"But what is important is that a public company brings with it an added responsibility in terms of practices in standards."

The enlarged group would own and manage eight racecourses and become one of the UK's top three racecourse operators.