Risks of allowing racing fans at St Leger Festival ‘too great’, says Doncaster Mayor

Commenting on Twitter earlier today, Ros Jones revealed that the Government decided to allow the festival to go ahead without consulting the Council, and against her wishes.

The Government yesterday chose the St Leger as one of its pilot events for the return of spectator sport, allowing 20,000 fans to attend the racecourse over the four days of the festival.

But Mayor Jones said that the risks of Covid infection is still too great, and urged anyone who does attend the meet to ‘be sensible’.

She said: “I recognise the importance of Horse Racing in Doncaster and our strong heritage. The St Leger has a proud history of being one of the oldest races in the world. I know how important this is too many local residents and businesses.

"National Government have decided to allow the St Leger to go ahead with no involvement from myself or @MyDoncaster. It is out of the control of me & @MyDoncaster. Personally I think the risk of Covid infection is too great.

"We have been coping well in Doncaster, but this could all be put in jeopardy. I ask anyone thinking of attending the event to be sensible, try to maintain social distance and look after yourselves.”

The four-day festival is due to start in less than two weeks’ time, with the St Leger Stakes being held on Saturday, September 12.

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