REDCAR Racecourse is preparing to welcome spectators back after a year of lockdown with a phased return starting next month.

Tickets have gone on sale for Redcar’s race meetings in May and June, with measures still in place to maximise on-site safety, including rules on social distancing and wearing facemasks.

Queueing systems will also be in place, along with touch-point cleaning, and multiple opportunities for people to hand sanitise around the course.

The first meeting with spectators is scheduled to be Monday, May 17, when the course will be operating at 50 per cent capacity. Those arrangements will continue on Zetland Gold Cup Day on May 31 (Bank Holiday Monday) and on Tuesday, June 1.

If the Government’s road map out of lockdown continues to be successful, the plan is to return to 100 per cent capacity for meetings on Friday and Saturday, June 18 and 19.

Redcar’s general manager Amy Fair said: “We’ve really missed having our spectators with us and we can’t wait to welcome them back.

“Obviously, we have to be conscious that Government regulations can change at any time but, as things stand, we are planning for a phased return with safety continuing to be very much paramount to all our planning.”

Grandstand admission tickets are on sale in advance for the May and June meetings, including admission to the Malton and Middleham bars for takeaway drinks only, as well as the Steppings Bar, near the Zetland Bar. Hospitality will be available for race days from May 31.

The view of the action remains unrestricted but, due to a sectioned-off Green Zone being in operation for key workers, there is no access to the Food Court, Paddock Suite, Parade Ring, William Hill Betting Shop, or Winners’ Enclosure.

Tickets cannot be purchased on the day and there will be no access to the Course enclosure, due to it being used to comply with Covid-19 restrictions.

In line with Government guidelines, food and drink must be consumed outside, unless hospitality is booked in a restaurant when available.

There is also no indoor seating available, with only limited shelter, so spectators are advised to dress with that in mind.

The racecourse can only take bookings for up to six people, and Government track and trace requirements demand that details must be given for every person, so those booking are asked to have all details ready.