DOGS UNLEASHED
Drugs blitz as racegoers relish Cheltenham party
CHELTENHAM bosses are bidding to rein in drugs at next week’s festival with sniffer dogs at all entrances.
The zero-tolerance approach to drugs is part of a crackdown on antisocial behaviour seen at race meetings such as Royal Ascot, as race organisers try to ensure this year’s event is a surefire winner.
Staff have been instructed to be on the lookout for dealers at the four-day Gold Cup event.
Racegoers are told on the course’s official website: “Cheltenham Racecourse does not condone the use of or dealing in drugs on site.
“We employ drug detection dogs at all our entrances on race days and selected events.
“Drug enforcement laws are as applicable on this site as they are anywhere else and any infringements of these laws will be taken very seriously.
“Our policy on drugs is based on both prevention and enforcement with the active targeting of those customers seeking to deal drugs to others.”
Strict alcohol rules will also be in place at the horse racing bonanza.
The four-day festival has long been a drink-soaked event with fans sinking
265,000 pints of Guinness,
120,000 bottles of wine and
20,000 bottles of champers at the 25 bars and restaurants. But punters are banned from bringing booze onto the course and can only buy four alcoholic drinks at a time.
Security staff will be searching bags to find anyone trying to sneak in drink, including tipples in hip flasks.
The site added: “Please would racegoers kindly note that bringing your own alcoholic drink on site is strictly prohibited.
“For your own enjoyment and to avoid disappointment please observe this restriction.
“Security bag searches are in place on racedays and no food or drink is allowed within the venue.
“Should you need to bring in food for a medical requirement then please do get in touch.
“Complimentary water is available at all bars.
“Please respect our neighbours when leaving the racecourse. No alcohol is to be taken off site.”
Bookies are braced for a betting bonanza at the festival, which runs from Tuesday to Friday next week.
Last year’s Gold Cup was won by 5-1 chance Native River, ridden by champion jockey Richard Johnson.