HORSE racing will continue at Musselburgh Racecourse until the end of the year.

A further extension to its racing licence has been granted by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA).

The licence had been due to expire at the end of the flat season next month but it will now continue beyond the four jump fixtures planned for November and December.

The decision comes as East Lothian Council continues to look to appoint a third party to run the facility on its behalf.

The course’s future had been in doubt following a breakdown in relations between the council and Musselburgh’s racing representatives.

Councillor Fiona O’Donnell, chairwoman of Musselburgh Racecourse Associated Committee (MRAC), said: “This further extension of Musselburgh Racecourse’s licence reflects the very positive work which has taken place to secure the track’s future.”

Four jump racing fixtures are planned between November 7 and December 10, with racing also taking place on New Year’s Day.

The BHA board has extended the licence to cover the 2018 events and is conditional on a licence application being lodged with the national body, which is under way, and also keeping it updated on the progress of the procurement process to appoint a new operator.

Musselburgh Racecourse will apply for a racecourse licence for 2019 later this year.

Members of MRAC are aware the BHA may issue further temporary licences throughout 2019 while the process of appointing a third party to operate the racecourse is under way.

Ms O’Donnell added: “The procurement process for appointing a third party operator is being progressed and I look forward to reporting further progress in due course.”