A new kids’ club has been launched at Sedgefield Racecourse, attracting more family visitors to the tracks and the wider County Durham area.

The Young Hooves club is free to join and is designed to make family days out at Sedgefield Racecourse, and at all 14 of Arena Racing Group’s (ARC’s) other UK courses, even more fun for under-18s, who already get free entry. While adults get to enjoy thrilling racing, with annual highlights at Sedgefield Racecourse including Boxing Day Racing on December 26, now children have a reason to ask for a day at the races too.

Jill Williamson, general manager at Sedgefield Racecourse said: “Children love days out at Sedgefield Racecourse – the fresh air, space to run around, the thrill of seeing horses run and lots of facilities for picnics, eating and drinking.

“Our previous family events have proven parents and kids love to visit our racecourses for a special day out – more than 50,000 visitors attend family-friendly fun days across ARC’s courses each year –  and we think the new Young Hooves club makes us even more exciting and better value for money.”

In terms of value, Young Hooves is free to join and includes a welcome goody bag with binoculars, a certificate and membership badge, as well as quizzes and sheets about horses. With adult entry into family-friendly events at Sedgefield Racecourse starting from just £13 when booked in advance, a family with two adults pays from just £26 for a full day of racing, entertainment, activities and a chance to meet the horses, with parking also free.

Youngsters who join Young Hooves will get newsletters and birthday treats and when they attend family fun days, entertainments such as face-painting, inflatables, circus workshops and visits from TV characters ensure they’re entertained for hours. On the Young Hooves website, children are also able to upload their photography to an online gallery and download puzzles and games.

To join, children can visit www.younghooves.co.uk and fill in their details online, or join on the day by visiting the Racecourse office and speaking to the Kids Club Ambassador.