Cheltenham feels the pinch as corporate bookings fall 20%

CHELTENHAM has long been the gathering place for the elite of the Irish corporate world. But now that closing time has been called on the boom years, the party looks like it’s coming to an end.

Corporate bookings have plunged 20% this year as businesses book fewer tents, boxes, helicopters and restaurant tables.

Festival organisers said firms don’t want to be seen entertaining clients in the midst of the economic downturn when staff are being laid off.