Thousands expected to descend on Lambourn today (Good Friday)

Once again more than 30 racing yards will open their doors to the public to up to 10,000 visitors so they can take a look world-renowned racehorse training facilities in the Valley of the Racehorse.
Lambourn is home to around 2,000 thoroughbreds and the event offers visitors an opportunity to meet the trainers, staff and the stars themselves – the racehorses.
Last year, Long Run, winner of the 2011 Cheltenham Gold Cup, was the star of the show.
Trainer Nicky Henderson’s Seven Barrows yard was besieged with thousands of visitors eager to catch a glimpse of the racehorse on his home turf.
Throughout the morning, visitors will again have access to the yards and the afternoon is packed with entertainment in the centre of Lambourn.
The highlights will include the Stan James Camel Racing and Stan James Lambourn Games which will see top jockeys, past and present, battle it out against each other in a number of highly challenging Olympic-themed events.
There will also be an eagle and vulture display by Eagle heights, schooling over fences and hurdles by top jockeys and a display by the renowned trainer of horse and rider, Yogi Breisner.
As usual there will also be riding demonstrations, trade stands and a continuous programme of events in the main arena.
Since its inception in 1990, the Charity Open Day has raised well over £500,000 for the Lambourn Valley Housing Trust, The Thames Valley Air Ambulance and a number of other local causes.
The yards open their doors from 8:30am until 1pm, with the afternoon entertainment kicking off at 1pm.
Admission prices are as follows: £12 for entry into racing yards and afternoon entertainment; £6 for afternoon entertainment only. Children under 12 can enter for free and there will be ample free parking.
A regular feature of the Betfair Lambourn Open Day is the Silent Auction and this year will be no exception.
Unique prizes are generously donated by individuals and bids can be placed in the events field.
For full details of the prizes and for more information about the event, visit www.lambourn.info