A training yard near Darlington to open its doors free to the public to show what life as a racehorse is really like.
Michael Dods’ Denton Hall training yard, which will open 10.30am and 12.30pm, on Monday, September 9 will showcase the inner workings of a racehorse yard to allow people to experience an equine athlete in training.
Visitors of all ages will have the opportunity to meet the stars of the sport up close, talk with the trainers and ask questions of the staff who care for the horses 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Activities include a yard tour, live demonstrations, and a chance to meet the racehorses.
Situated in the peaceful village of Denton, just four miles outside of Darlington, the Denton Hall Stables are set in 540 acres of tranquil County Durham countryside which is ideal for training thoroughbred racehorses.
As well as being blessed with a picturesque setting, they also have first-class facilities aimed at keeping horses healthy and happy.
One of the most consistent trainers in the north of England, Dods surpassed 1,000 winners in 2022. The event is part of the week-long National Racehorse Week programme, with more than 100 open days taking place across the country between September 7 and 15.
Great British Racing, who run National Racehorse Week, will also be carrying out more than 50 community events over the week, including racing yards hosting school visits, youth groups, charities and urban equestrian centres.
Many trainers and owners of former racehorses will also take horses into schools and care homes, offering those who would not ordinarily have the chance to see a racehorse up close the opportunity to be part of the weeklong initiative.
TV personality Chris Hughes, a racehorse owner and ambassador for National Racehorse Week said: “The impact of getting up close to a horse cannot be underestimated.
Most read:
- Dog owner's warning to others after pooch woke up with paralysed legs
- Sports and leisure club to shut after increasing costs and reducing footfall
- Hospital trust slammed over death of Darlington man and told it 'must take action'
"And racing has created a unique opportunity through National Racehorse Week to help people meet these incredible animals, experience the life of a thoroughbred and talk to the dedicated teams who care for them 365 days a year.
"There is nothing quite like this in any other sport. It is fantastic that the events are free to attend with everyone welcome to join.”
To find out more and to claim tickets, visit nationalracehorseweek.co.uk.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here