WAGS and socialites are enjoying the brand new Winning Post Enclosure at Chester Racecourse as the racing season gets underway at the May festival (May 4-6).

The exclusive area is located right by the winning post, offering unparalleled views of the closing stages of every race from just within the running rail.

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It features new-look stand-alone bars and food concessions, high poseur tables and stools, TVs and heaters.

Adjacent to the Winning Post Enclosure, is the VIP Paddock Club for the entertainment of partners and sponsors on race days.

This upmarket networking space is limited to 60 corporate guests and mirrors that of an exclusive airport business lounge. It features a roof-top viewing platform to provide the ‘perfect vantage point’ looking down the home straight and onto the winning post.

Nearby a custom-designed vintage Citroen van is serving premium spirits and beers alongside Champagnes, complemented by street food concepts from across the globe.

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Tickets for Winning Post Enclosure are not for the faint-hearted ranging from £78 up to £90 at popular meetings like Ladies’ Day – although the racecourse stresses these are the same prices that were charged in 2015 before the enclosure was revamped.

Richard Thomas, chief executive of Chester Race Company

Chester Race Company chief executive Richard Thomas said of the new facilities: “In total we’ve spent nearly £1m. It’s about upgrading the facilities for the racecourse. The key is people expect better facilities every year and that means keeping ahead of the competition.”

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Speaking just ahead of the start of the May festival on a beautiful sunny day, he continued: “It’s perfect weather. It’s the first time we’ve had a dry May meeting for probably three years now. After last year’s being so miserable we’re in a fortunate position where people can look forward to three days of sunshine.”

Talking about the uniqueness of the Chester racing offer, he explained: “It’s the atmosphere, that’s the main thing really. Everyone is close to the action. You can see everything that’s going on. We’ve got great facilities and you’ve also got the city centre on the doorstep, for before and after, so it’s a really full day out.”