Oktoberfest comes to Thirsk Racecourse

It's the third annual beer festival evening today.

A touch of the famous Oktoberfest comes to Thirsk this evening with the third annual Beer Festival evening at the North Yorkshire course, held in association with the Pennine Brewery from the nearby village of Well.

In addition to a cracking seven race card, there will be an opportunity to choose from a whole host of craft beers and ciders many from micro-breweries – and for the first 100 people through the gates, there is a token to get £1 off your first pint. Whilst for those who prefer a refreshing cocktail, a specialist Gin bar will be set alongside the ales.

It’s an evening for the purist with some exciting racing to enjoy and refreshment for those who simply enjoy beers, ciders and gins for their great taste. An occasion when real racing meets real ale.

There will also be live music throughout the evening with the Rockin’ Deke Rivers performing live in the Paddock Enclosure.

Entry to the Premier Enclosure costs £23 (£21 if booked online ahead of the day), while Paddock admission can be obtained for £15 (£14 online). There are also great reductions for group bookings while, as always, adult-accompanied children under 18 get in free.

As Thirsk enters the second half of its 16-day season, it could pay to keep an eye on the runners of trainer Michael Dods, whose team has been running into form recently. The Darlington-based handler sent out 18 winners in the previous three seasons, but has only had one at the track so far this year.

Gates open at 3.30pm ahead of the first race at 6.10pm.