HEAVY rain has been a headache for Chester Racecourse during its prestigious three day May meeting this week.

For the second day in a row today (Friday), the open course will be closed to the public due to the ground conditions.

Pre-booked open course tickets will be up-graded to Dee Stand.

Parking arrangements for punters have also had to be changed. Cheshire West and Chester Council has agreed that Watergate Street car park can be used to ensure the proper functioning of the racecourse on Friday and it will therefore be closed to the public.

Members of the public are asked to use the enhanced park and ride services at Sealand Road and Wrexham Road - where additional buses will be provided - or to use an alternative car park in Chester.

A Chester Race Company spokesman said: "Chester Racecourse apologises for the inconvenience and thanks Cheshire West and Chester for their assistance and the public for their co-operation."