Musselburgh Racecourse has hailed a hugely successful jumps season, as it held its final meeting of the season on Thursday.

The course enjoyed increased attendances at its two premier jumps meetings, with a 10 per cent uplift on the gate at the New Year’s Day meeting (4,424) and despite last-minute weather concerns, a seven per cent rise (2,653) at the John Smith’s Scottish Cheltenham Trials meeting on February 1.

With increased prize money of £650,000 over the 11 National Hunt meetings, racecourse management are pleased with the upward attendance trend at the key meetings.

Sarah Montgomery, Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, said: “It has been another successful jumps season and we are pleased at being able to build on the appeal of our two anchor meetings, with first-class prize money attracting quality entries, which is reflected in the attendances.

“The Scottish Cheltenham Trials day was touch and go as to whether the meeting would go ahead because of frost and the threat of snow but, despite the uncertainty, we still increased the attendance, which is encouraging.” The racecourse has a six-week respite as preparations are made for the launch of the 16-fixture flat season over the Easter weekend, which kicks off on Good Friday (April 3) and is followed with the hugely popular Easter Sunday Family Day (April 5).

For more information and fixtures, visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk