HORSERACING fans finally got the chance to enjoy a flutter at Chelmsford City Racecourse on Sunday as the county's flagship new venue opened to the public for the first time.
After two test events, which attracted around 1,000 people from the industry, Sunday's fixture was the first at which the public were allowed in.
Chelmsford City Marketing Director, Ben Turnbull said: "It was fantastic to see so many people visiting Chelmsford City for the first time. It was a cold day, but that didn't dampen anyone's spirits. There was a real buzz about the track and a great atmosphere inside the new stand where many racegoers enjoyed the warmth and the extensive catering and betting facilities.
"Overall today was another encouraging day for the racecourse. We have received a lot of positive feedback and will continue to make improvements as we work towards the Grand Opening set for late spring."
Most people had bought at their tickets online in advance and at a discounted rate, but there were still a number of people who bought their tickets at the gate.
On the track, Charlie Appleby continued his excellent Chelmsford City strike-rate with impressive debutant Wanting in the opening race, a filly that looks to be going places.
The most impressive winner of the day was Thanksgiving Day ridden by Jamie Spencer and trained by Jamie Osborne, the same combination who landed a second in the Breeders' Cup with Toast of New York.
The feature race went to Come On Dave, who made a mockery of his handicap mark with a seven-length success.
Elsewhere on the card, Rock Charm won the third race for owner P Ransley, who now boasts an impressive record of two winners and a second from his three runners at Chelmsford.
The next race day is Thursday.
