Preparations underway to ensure a successful Cheltenham Festival
Initiatives in place to manage crowds and promote safety during the horse racing festival
Cheltenham is gearing up for the return of its esteemed annual horse racing festival, taking place from 10th to 13th March.
The festival, heralded as the pinnacle of the National Hunt season, attracts significant attention across the nation, bringing in tens of thousands of visitors to the town.
To ensure the event runs smoothly and safely, local authorities have instituted a range of measures targeting anti-social behaviour and promoting safety.
In collaboration with various agencies, the council has launched campaigns including ‘Keep it Clean,’ ‘War on Wee,’ ‘Ask for Angela,’ and ‘Love our Turf.’
There will also be an increased police presence, with temporary toilets around the town and mounted police patrols during the evenings.
Dedicated officers and stewards are ready to assist with crowd control, while voluntary sector partners will support the evening and night-time economy to ensure safety.
Cllr Victoria Atherstone, cabinet member for safety and communities, emphasised the importance of combating illegal taxi operations and anti-social behaviour, stating, “Keeping women and girls safe remains a central focus."
Additional patrols will be conducted by Superintendent James Glansfield and his team to ensure attendees remain responsible and have a safe experience.
Andre Klein of Cheltenham Racecourse highlighted the collaboration with local partners, expressing commitment to a safe and engaging festival for all.
Transportation measures such as park-and-ride services from Arle Court Transport Hub and shuttle buses from Cheltenham Spa Train Station have been put in place.
Council officers will play a proactive role in overseeing compliance at licensed bars and venues, working closely with police to address any issues.
Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead using resources like Visit Cheltenham, The Jockey Club, and Gloucestershire County Council’s Highways information for road closures.