Yorkshire Post

Racing buffs’ rare glimpse behind the scenes

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HORSE RACING fans seized the opportunit­y to take a rare look behind the scenes when the popular Middleham Open Day returned to its traditiona­l Good Friday slot.

Stable yards opened their doors to the public for the morning, giving visitors the chance to see horses swimming at Kingsley House Stables, watch a jumping demonstrat­ion at James Bethell’s Thorngill Stables and see Household Cavalry Horse Trooper ‘Middleham’ on show.

Various market stalls and food offerings in Middleham, a craft fair at the Key Centre, celebrity pony Little Alf – star of author Hannah Russell’s books – and a parade of local fox hounds were among the other attraction­s.

In the afternoon, events moved to the Low Moor where activities included a show Unless you’re an owner, you don’t have access to these places. Sarah Fanning, of the charity Racing Welfare, explains the popularity of the event. to music by Retraining of Racehorses and schooling of National Hunt horses from Micky Hammond’s stable. Sarah Fanning, of the charity Racing Welfare, said: “It’s gone really well. I think we’ve had about 3,000 people coming along and everybody has had a great day. They all love going behind the scenes and getting into the yards. “Unless you’re an owner, you don’t have access to these places and I think that’s what draws people.” The event, sponsored by ARC racing and training group, also raises funds for good causes. Racing Welfare, Middleham Sports and Wellbeing Associatio­n, Riding for the Disabled and Yorkshire Air Ambulance are among this year’s beneficiar­ies.

 ??  ?? OPEN DAY: Cardsharp is led around the swimming arena at Kingsley House; Harry Todd, nine, strokes The Gingerbrea­d Man; racehorse Tyrell shows his teeth. PICTURES: JAMES HARDISTY.
OPEN DAY: Cardsharp is led around the swimming arena at Kingsley House; Harry Todd, nine, strokes The Gingerbrea­d Man; racehorse Tyrell shows his teeth. PICTURES: JAMES HARDISTY.

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