Forum recommends measures to improve horse-racing

A special forum established by the state body that oversees the horse-racing industry has recommended a range of measures to improve the experience for punters.

In a report out today, the Racegoers Consultative Forum said visitors to race meetings want a better quality product and more value for money.

The forum, which was set up by Horse Racing Ireland in 2003 to hear the views of racegoers, says catering and other facilities should be improved at race courses.

It also says a charter should be established to set out minimum standards for such facilities, while fixed-price family tickets should be introduced along with a loyalty card covering all courses for regular racegoers.

The forum has also recommended that a code of practice be introduced for on-course bookmakers.

Horse Racing Ireland is promising to take action in response to the proposals.