Tributes paid following death of former chairman Sir Charles Lowther aged 72

There was a sombre mood as racing returned to the course for the winter season following news of the death of former Bangor chairman Sir Charles Lowther at the age of 72 on the eve of the fixture.

Flags were flown at half mast and a minute's silence was observed before the first race in tribute to Lowther, who had served 14 years as chairman between 2002-2016 and was on the board at Bangor and parent track Chester.

Lowther, who lived locally, had also been a steward in the North West for many years, working at both courses as well as Haydock.