RACING Welfare is set to host a “virtual open day” next month.

The showcase of racing in Yorkshire is being held on September 13 in place of the Malton and Middleham open days, which have been cancelled this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Thanks to the continued support of Arena Racing Company (ARC), the Virtual Yorkshire Open Day will feature racehorse trainers from across the county, including video tours and other insights into their training operations.

The day will also air interviews with racing personalities to give a flavour of what makes racing so special in Yorkshire.

Tim Fitzgerald, vice-chairperson of the Malton Open Day committee, said: “The Covid-19 outbreak has given Malton Open Day the opportunity to develop into a virtual showcase of racing in Yorkshire.

“We are delighted to be able to share the array of amazing facilities available across the whole of the county and very much look forward to giving the public a behind-the-scenes experience.”

The event will include an opportunity for viewers to participate from home by entering an online dog show, with the winner of each class decided by public vote.

New for this year will be an art competition with entries judged by Racing Welfare ambassador and artist Darren “Birdie” Bird.

Racing Welfare, which supports all those working in the profession, is also running a national online auction to assist in fundraising efforts, which will be live from August 27 to September 24.

The lots on offer include a private tour of the National Stud in Newmarket and a 2021 share in a racehorse with the Hot to Trot syndicate.

Dawn Goodfellow, chief executive of Racing Welfare, said: “Combining Middleham and Malton open days in a virtual form gives us a platform to promote racing in Yorkshire to a larger audience than we have ever been able to before.

“These occasions are hugely popular and important in promoting Yorkshire racing and for our fundraising efforts throughout the year. We hope everyone will follow the events of the day and enjoy the fabulous insight on offer.”

For more information, go to racingwelfare.co.uk/yorkshireopenday/