A RACECOURSE is holding a charity raceday as the countdown to Christmas begins.

This year, the Countdown to Christmas Raceday at Sedgefield Racecourse in County Durham will raise funds and awareness for the Hartlepool and District Hospice.

Wynyard Park, a founding member of the hospice’s Guild of the Patrons, will host the event, which kicks off at 11am on Tuesday, December 2, and features seven races.

Hartlepool and District Hospice improves the lives of people and families affected by life limiting illness or the death of a loved one by ensuring they get the quality care and support they need.

As the only adult hospice in the Hartlepool and East Durham area, its services are vital to the communities it serve.

Wynyard Park has raised more than £60,000 for the charity over the years.

Carol Sennett, corporate fundraiser at the hospice, said: “We are delighted to have been invited to be part of such a high profile fundraising event.

“The partnership between the hospice and Wynyard Park has been incredibly successful and we are enormously grateful for their dedication and kindness.

“On behalf of all our patients and their families, I would just like to say a huge thank you for such wonderful loyalty to our cause.”

Grandstand and Paddock tickets can be booked in advance for £13. For more information or to book tickets, visit sedgefield-racecourse.co.uk or call 01740-621925.