CHESTER Racecourse has partnered with two leading security firms to ensure that the new race season will be as safe as possible for its guests.

The venue has reached an agreement with FGH Security and G4S, both of whom carry extensive event management experience from many of the world's leading events and festivals. Chester Racecourse say that this will form part of a robust strategy with a focus on keeping people safe, with the two agencies employing upwards of 15,000 stewards.

There has also been investment in additional CCTV and new incident management systems, close protection and CT training.

Steven Davies, Chief Operating Officer at Chester Racecourse, said: "Here at Chester Racecourse we are committed to delivering the best possible experience for all our guests in a safe and secure environment. Both FGH Security and G4S offer vast expertise in securing some of the leading sporting venues and events.

"Coupled with our own Management Team, the support of Hostile Vehicle Mitigation and the introduction of our new race day assistants, who will provide additional help and guidance for visitors to Chester Racecourse, we want to reassure guests of our commitment to keeping them safe, so that they can be totally immersed in the spectacular race day experience."

Dave Taylor, FGH Security Project Manager, said: "Working with Chester Racecourse is an immense privilege and we are looking forward to starting in May. The tender process was incredibly robust and we were delighted when the award notification came through.

"We’ve invested in delivering the best Spectator Safety training to our team and look forward to working with Chester Racecourse and its visitors to provide a safe and secure experience for all attendees."

Paul Manson, G4S Head of Region - Events North, added: "G4S welcomes the opportunity to provide its extensive experience and seamless security solutions to such an historic venue as Chester Racecourse and will be working with all parties to minimise risk and keep everybody safe."