Doncaster MP clarifies comments on support for fans attending St Leger

A Doncaster Labour MP who said they ‘lobbied’ Government for spectators to attend the upcoming St Leger horse racing festival, has said she will support ‘whatever action the council takes’ including cancelling the event.
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Dame Rosie Winterton, MP for Doncaster Central, said she was a big supporter of a reduced number of spectators to attend the September event despite her Labour colleague and DMBC mayor Ros Jones who said the risk was ‘too great’ because of Covid-19.

At present, the annual event, which is usually attended by thousands of horse racing fans, will allow 3,640 general admissions on Wednesday, September 9, rising to 6,202 general admissions for the following three days.

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Mayor Jones said the decision to hold the event with some fans had no input from the council.

Picture of the St Leger festival taken during Ladies' Day 2019 and Doncaster Central MP, Rosie WintertonPicture of the St Leger festival taken during Ladies' Day 2019 and Doncaster Central MP, Rosie Winterton
Picture of the St Leger festival taken during Ladies' Day 2019 and Doncaster Central MP, Rosie Winterton

The contrast in views from the Labour MP and mayor has been criticised by opposition Conservative councillors on Doncaster Council.

In a letter signed by group leader Coun Jane Cox and seven of her colleagues, they said: “We have reasonable reservations about the event taking place this year - with a significant crowd.

“Doncaster has been at the forefront of the fight against Covid with our ‘R‘ number being one of the lowest in the area. Unfortunately, it would appear this decision has been taken out of our hands as the Labour MP for Doncaster Central has lobbied our Government to have the pilot staged in Doncaster.

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“As politicians, we fully back the Government in the need to reopen events, including racing and other sports, but cannot see that Doncaster is best placed for this to happen.

The sell out crowds inthe County Enclosure at the St Leger Festival Ladies Day. Picture: Liz MocklerThe sell out crowds inthe County Enclosure at the St Leger Festival Ladies Day. Picture: Liz Mockler
The sell out crowds inthe County Enclosure at the St Leger Festival Ladies Day. Picture: Liz Mockler

“Each one of Doncaster’s Conservative councillors is concerned about the obvious lack of communication between the elected mayor and one of her local labour MPs.”

In response to the letter, Dame Rosie said; “I understand that there are ongoing discussions regarding the St Leger Festival.

“I strongly support whatever action the council takes to ensure that there are measures in place which are fully in line with the advice from public health experts.

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“I also completely understand that if they decide that the event would not meet safety standards it should be cancelled. I will ensure Ministers are aware of this situation.”

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