A crowd of more than 25,000 celebrated the start to a sun-soaked bank holiday weekend on the Roodee at Roman Day yesterday (May 28).

Racegoers were treated to seven races and a plethora of entertainment in the Roman-themed village on the Open Course.

A spectacle of chariot racing entertained the crowds throughout the afternoon between races and, for the more competitive, there was the opportunity to challenge opponents to a friendly duel with a spot of inflatable jousting.

A crowd of more than 25,000 attended Chester Races Roman Day

As always, it was free entry on to course for kids and, as well as the entertainment on offer, youngsters had opportunity to finish their day looking the part, with free face painting in the Roman village.

Roman foot soldiers meandered the course, posing for photos with racegoers enjoying their day.

Nightingale House Hospice were sponsors of the final race of the day and benefited from generous racegoers as they left the racecourse, with a bucket collection at the gate.

Chester Races Roman Day 2016

Eluned Griffiths, chair of the board of trustees, said “It’s been a lovely day and great for us to gain exposure in a totally different environment and enable racegoers to find out more about us.”

Preparations are now under way for the Summer Saturday on Saturday, 11 June.