Jumping to it for winter festival at racecourse

The weather is forecast to be dry, but very cold.
The Sportingbet Winter Festival sees three days of some of the best jump racing in the country, which started with Newbury Day yesterday (Thurs), Gentleman’s Day today (Fri) and culminating tomorrow (Sat) with the big one, the Gold Cup.
The race, one of the most prestigious in Britain, brings together a selection of star steeplechasers going head-to-head over a demanding distance of three miles, and two-and-a half furlongs.
Last year’s winner, Carruthers, was trained in Wantage, Oxfordshire, by Mark Bradstock.
Expect to see some famous faces at the racecourse this weekend as the festival is a favourite with celebrities.
Last year’s visitors included the Princess Royal, the singer Cilla Black, actor Dame Judi Dench, comedienne Ruby Wax and the former News of the World editor Rebekah Brooks.
Visitors can also revel in the seasonal atmosphere with a spin on the ice rink, and pick up some unusual stocking fillers and treats in the winter shopping village.
Today, the racecourse will also be offering a discount of £5 for men, who have been growing a moustache for men’s charity fundraiser Movember.
The managing director of the racecourse, Stephen Higgins, said: “We are very much looking forward to the Sportingbet Winter Festival, which is a fantastic way to launch our Jump season.
"It will be a festive celebration with top quality jump racing, and so much on offer – a great winter weekend for all.
“We’re also pleased to be supporting the Movember cause and look forward to seeing a variety of ‘Mo’s”.
After the torrential rain of the past week, the going is expected to be soft, heavy in places.
However, wrap up warm because daytime temperatures are only expected to reach 4°C this weekend.
For more details about the festival, visit