Southwell setback: first two floodlit meetings transferred

The first two scheduled evening fixtures under floodlights at Southwell have been moved to alternative all-weather venues following an issue with the supply and installation of power cabling at the Nottinghamshire track.

Wolverhampton will now stage what would have been a landmark evening meeting for Southwell on January 29, while the second planned fixture will now take place at Newcastle on February 5.

Work on the power supply to recently-installed floodlights at the course will continue up until Christmas and into the new year.

Mark Clayton, executive director at Southwell, said: “Unfortunately it has recently come to our attention that some delays to the supply and installation of the internal power cabling will knock us back a few weeks on completing the installation of the floodlights.

“Prior to racing taking place, we obviously have to undergo a series of tests and trials, so we've taken the decision to put back our first floodlit fixture to make sure that we have adequate time to complete this work.

“Our thanks must go to the BHA for their assistance and understanding at this time.”

Arena Racing Company will confirm early next month whether the scheduled floodlit Fibresand fixtures on February 18 and 22 will be able to take place.

Richard Wayman, chief operating officer at the BHA, said: “The BHA’s Racing and Racecourse Operations departments are working closely with Southwell as the racecourse completes the installation of its floodlights in early 2019.

“These two fixtures have been relocated in accordance with our fixture policy with the primary aim being to minimise the impact of this slight delay on racing’s customers.”

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