Pictures as crowds enjoy Cheltenham Festival at Sedgefield Racecourse

Stands at the Sedgefield Racecourse were brimming with onlookers as many gathered on a cold bright afternoon today (March 14) to watch the races taking place today both locally, as well as Gold Cup fixtures.

In anticipation of the event, many were in high spirits despite the cold, bitter winds moving through the standing area.

With pints and betting slips in hand, some were left overjoyed at the conclusion of the first race, with Forcing Bull crossing the finish line first, while others cursed under their breath at the result.

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Andy White, Northern Echo editor celebrating a win on his day off (Image: The Northern Echo)

In fact, our very own Andrew White, attending the race on his day off and surprising the Echo's on-duty reporter, was left jubilant after scoring a win on the first race.

Speaking on his time at the ground, he said: "We've had a terrific day here in Sedgefield, I've won some, I've lost some.

"It really doesn't matter, the atmosphere is great. Love it."

Meanwhile, another delighted punter who had won big at the race along with friends said "It's going absolutely brilliant, we started off with the first winner, these lads have had the second and third winners.

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"We've won, I would say, around £1,500."

Another onlooker said: "It's been fantastic, it's been brilliant, thoroughly enjoyed it."

Here are some pictures from the event below: