Radio DJ Vernon Kay is set to get racegoers partying at Cartmel next weekend.
What is surely Britain’s most picturesque racecourse hosts two days of racing on Saturday 20 and Monday 22 July.
Vernon will deliver a 90-minute DJ set following the last race on the Saturday.
Geraldine McKay, director of racing, said: “This is a popular meet and we wanted to do something to make it a bit more special.
“Two years ago we had Ricky Wilson from the Kaiser Chiefs and he went down really well. This time we’re thrilled to get Vernon.
“He’s quite a name with a big personality who plays feel-good music. It will be a good sing-along and dance-along, a really good vibe. It’s really wonderful to be in the beautiful Cartmel Valley, listening to great music as the sun sets.”
Upwards of 10,000 people are expected on the Saturday.
The gates open at 9am, the first race is at 1.40pm and the last at 5.10pm with Vernon’s set – delivered on a professional sound system – starting at 5.50pm.
There are seven races including the popular Cumbria Crystal Cup, sponsored by William Hill, at 4.35pm and the Cartmel Female Jockeys’ Handicap at 4pm.
Geraldine added: “The all-female race is a grade-3 hurdle, very popular, and generally attracts a full field of 14 riders, amateurs and professionals.”
The race weekend comes at the start of the school summer holidays. There is entertainment for all the family, including a funfair for the kids. Racegoers aged 17 and under get free entry when accompanied by a paying adult.
Those looking for a luxury experience can book fine dining food-and-drink packages at the Louis Roederer Restaurant, with its private viewing balcony, or the Parade Ring Restaurant marquee.
Monday 22 July is also expected to be a busy race day and has proved especially popular with businesses laying on a corporate day out for clients and staff.
Again, there are seven races with gates opening at 9am, the first race at 1.40pm and the last at 5pm.
Tickets are available from £30 for Saturday and £23 on Monday. Pre-book here.
