VISITORS were given the opportunity to see behind the scenes at the yards of some of Malton and Norton’s best known racehorse trainers at the weekend.

As part of the Malton Festival of Racing on Sunday, leading figures in the racing industry, including Richard Fahey, John Quinn and Tim Easterby opened their yards to the public.

There was also have the chance to look around the Injured Jockeys Fund northern rehabilitation centre, Jack Berry House.

After meeting the horses, stable staff and trainers in the morning, visitors were invited to enjoy a wide range of attractions on Highfield Gallops in the afternoon.

The programme included a Jockeys’ Relay showjumping competition, a dog show - and terrier racing, as well as food, drink and shopping stalls.

As the organisers of the Arena Racing Company-sponsored event, Racing Welfare will be the main beneficiary charity of the day, with a proportion of the funds raised also going to local causes.

Sarah Fanning, regional welfare manager for the North at Racing Welfare, said: “The Malton Festival of Racing, incorporating the Stables Open Day, is a key event for the horseracing industry in the area.

“It helps to highlight the success of racing in the North of England and provides a special opportunity for racing fans and local people to see the hard work that takes place behind the scenes in the sport.

“Thank you to everyone who came along to Malton Festival of Racing, what a fantastic day.

“Thank you to all of the yards and to Jack Berry House,​ all of whom welcomed scores of visitors.”