MUSSELBURGH Racecourse has invested £100,000 in a series of improvements which aim to benefit both racegoers and runners at the track.

Since the end of the flat season in October, the parade ring and horse walk from the stables have been upgraded, while the entrance to the owners’ and trainers' entrance and car park access have been enhanced.

The improvements package is part of an ongoing programme in which the racecourse reinvests profits to improve the race-going experience for racing fans, jockeys, owners and trainers.

Musselburgh Racecourse chief executive Bill Farnsworth said: “We are always looking at ways to make a visit to Musselburgh the best possible sporting experience and that includes improving the fabric of the facilities for all our visitors and the horses.

“Some of the changes may be indiscernible to the casual visitor but they are all important factors in protecting our VisitScotland 5 star status.

"Sometimes it is not the big improvements but many small improvements which help us in our quest to be ahead of the field and this hopefully encourages owners and trainers to race here and helps retain the loyalty of our existing racegoers.”

Musselburgh opens its flat season with the £40,000 Totepool Family Day, featuring the Shetland Pony Derby, on Sunday.

The first of seven races is off at 2pm and free family attractions include fairground rides, bouncy castles, side shows and a birds of prey display, while the Shetland Pony Derby takes place at 1pm.

To book tickets please visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk