Preparations for the first point-to-point race meeting of the Welsh Border season at Garnons, between Ross-on-Wye and Hay-on-Wye, on Sunday, March 18th, are well under way.

Clerk of the course, Chris Hooley, and his team of Ross Harriers supporters have been busy siting the steeplechase fences in the picturesque parkland at the beautiful Byton venue, and are crossing their fingers for kinder weather for their labours.

The seven races on the card will include a Timico Mixed Open, which qualifies placed horses for Finals at Stratford or Cheltenham, and a Jockey Club Mares Maiden, among others.

Many local trainers and riders have been travelling widely to meetings since the season began at the end of November. Bridgenorth-based handler, Phillip Rowley, has been particularly successful, and has helped amateur jockey, Alex Edwards, who partners most of his runners, to the impressive milestone of 100 winners in his career recently.

The meeting on March 18th at Garnons (HR9 7QU) will be as popular as ever with spectators, and the first race will be due off at 1.30pm.

Entrance to the course, on the A4438, six miles west of Hereford, will be £10 per person. Children under 16 and car parking free.