AN OPEN day which offers visitors the opportunity to see behind the scenes at one of the most prominent and historic racing centres in the UK is to return again this year.

Malton Open Day, sponsored by Arena Racing Company (ARC) and organised by Racing Welfare, will take place on Sunday, September 12, tying in with the start of the first ever National Racehorse Week which aims to celebrate both the racehorse and the staff responsible for the high levels of care they receive on a daily basis.

The event will see 12 training yards in and around Malton open their doors to the public with a wealth of equine stars on show, along with a chance to speak to the trainers and the stable staff who provide their day-to-day care.

Among the horses in the spotlight this year are a number of Royal Ascot winners, including Richard Fahey trained Perfect Power who won the Norfolk Stakes this year, as well as John Quinn’s Buckingham Palace Stakes winner Highfield Princess.

John said; “Racing Welfare is a very worthwhile organisation and the Open Day is a great opportunity to support the charity. The welfare of people working in the industry is absolutely paramount. Our stable staff are big cogs in the wheel, we all need support sometimes and anything I can do to support my staff and Racing Welfare I will gladly do.”

Visitors will also have the chance to look around the Injured Jockey’s Fund northern rehabilitation and fitness centre, Jack Berry House, which is open for tours from11am – 1pm.

A full programme of entertainment follows at Highfield Gallops in the afternoon, including the ever popular Linton Pet Shop dog show, alongside several family activities and a selection of retail stands. New for this year is the Advance Grass Solutions Ltd Pony Club Mounted Games and inter-yard team competition.

Adam Ferguson, Regional Welfare Manager in the North, said “ARC Malton Open Day is always such a highlight in the calendar, and this year will be even more special as we had to run the event virtually last year.

"We’re really grateful to all of the trainers who are supporting the Open Day and always provide such a great day out for the public, coupled with all of the afternoon’s activities. All funds raised will go towards helping Racing Welfare to provide vital services for anyone working in or retired from racing.”

Tickets are on sale now at www.maltonopenday.co.uk