Beverley racecourse chief executive Sally Iggulden branded 2015 “a great year” ahead of the final fixture of the season on Thursday.
Fine weather and big-money refurbishments in the close season contributed to yet another rise in yearly attendances at the popular East Yorkshire circuit.
The racing has also been superb, too, with young starlets like Easton Angel, winner of the Hilary Needler Trophy, and Brian Yeardley Continental Two-Year-Old Trophy hero First Selection in action at Beverley.
Maarek’s brilliant triumph in the totescoop6 Beverley Bullet was, however, recognised as the most significant performance in a campaign to remember.
But with an additional investment of £500,000 to expand and update Beverley’s main restaurant and premier enclosure, Iggulden believes next season could be even better.
She said: “2015 has been a great year for us.
“Attendances have been healthy throughout the season, with a five per cent increase, year on year.
“The investment in the facilities over the closed season were well received, and our improvement plan continues unabated this winter, with a further £500,000 spend on upgrades planned.
“Field sizes have also been strong, and the quality of racing on the Westwood continues to improve, in line with our commitment to prize-money.
“Our flagship races were hugely competitive, and the fact that the Beverley Bullet saw an Irish-trained horse in Maarek take home the spoils, shows the reputation that it now has amongst racing folk.”
Thursday’s eight-race finale on the Westwood is an added bonus for seasonal badge-holders after it was transferred from Newcastle.
The meeting is due to begin at 2pm, with the official going on Wednesday morning good to firm, with watering taking place to preserve conditions.