SIR Alex Ferguson decided not to go ahead with his planned trip to Chester Races following the announcement he is to step down as Manchester United manager at the end of the season after 26 years in charge.
The 71-year-old Scot was due to attend the first day of the May Festival at the Roodee to celebrate Manchester United's 20th league title with his team.
But due to the intense media interest fron the nation’s press, he did not join members of his title-winning squad who were spotted on the course.
Stars such as Rio Ferdinand, Michael Carrick, Robin Van Persie, Danny Welbeck and Wayne Rooney arrived at Chester Racecourse but remained tight-lipped about their legendary boss’ decision.
Sir Alex has won 38 trophies since taking over from Ron Atkinson on November 6, 1986, including this season's Premier League title.
His haul includes 13 titles, two Champions League crowns, five FA Cups and four League Cups.
Sir Alex has been a regular visitor to Chester Races, especially for the May meeting.
He also came to the course in December last year to hand out campaign medals to soldiers from the 1st Battalion Royal Welsh, who are based at the city’s Dale Camp, following their return from duty in Afganistan.
Sir Alex described his attendance as ‘a fantastic privilege’, telling soldiers and their proud family and friends who packed the stands on a bitterly cold day: “When I got the invitation I said to my secretary ‘Get that done right away’ because I thought that was one of the most worthwhile things I could ever do.”
