"Season’s greetings from Exeter Racecourse where today we have a terrific seven race card to conclude racing on Haldon Hill for 2018.

"We were treated to superb racing at our first December meeting, with Defi Du Seuil’s performance in a red-hot novices’ chase marking him out as a horse ready to take on the best with the Arkle or the JLT at the Cheltenham Festival.

"To see horses of his calibre winning at Exeter Racecourse is a huge treat for local racegoers. In winning, he beat two very highly regarded horses – Topofthegame who was runner up in the Coral Cup at The Festival™ presented by Magners and the Tom George-trained Black Op. The Paul Nicholls-trained Topofthegame is sure to be among the winners soon, as he spooked at the starter’s flag giving his rivals a lengthy start.

"To add to a great week of racing, we congratulate Exeter Racecourse and The Jockey Club’s ambassador Bryony Frost who won Cheltenham’s Caspian Caviar Gold Cup on Frodon on Saturday with a gutsy front-running performance.  It was a fantastic win that lit up a raw winter’s afternoon and really brought home how dedicated jockeys and stable staff are, particularly during the bitter winter months. While we were cocooned in warm clothing watching from the stands, or the TV from our sofas, the jockeys faced the starter dressed only in their racing silks, breeches and boots. It’s a tough job at the best of times, and on Saturday, they really demonstrated what amazing sportsmen and women they are, and how dedicated all the staff are. Hats off to them all.

"As the festive season drawers to a close, we look ahead to New Year’s Day on Haldon Hill, a great Devon tradition and we hope to see as many of you as possible here. Tickets are available from just £15 in advance.

"In 2019, we welcome you to join us at one of our nine great fixtures kicking off with January Jumps on Sunday, January 20 where Grandstand and Paddock tickets are available from just £5 each if pre-booked in advanced, and there’s 25% off in the Desert Orchid Restaurant too.

"Make sure you save the date for Winter Ladies’ Raceday on Sunday February 10, which coincides with a superb seven race card. This year, trainer Nick Williams put the finishing touches to Coo Star Sivola’s preparations before he went on to win at the Cheltenham Festival.

"Dig out your best winter coats and boots and add a splash of colour for Ladies’ Day on Haldon Hill. We have our terrific two pre-booked Grandstand and Paddock tickets for just £15 to entice you on to Haldon Hill!

"Another important date to note is Gentlemen’s Day in support of the Armed Forces on Sunday, March 24. We have an array of assets from the Armed Forces for all of the family to enjoy, prizes for the best dressed gentlemen, performances from the renowned Salamanca Band and we’ll be raising money for the Army Benevolent Fund too. We’re hugely excited about this day when we will be working very closely with 6 Rifles at Wyvern Barracks.

"Have a wonderful Christmas and warm wishes for 2019."

Jack Parkinson, General Manager, Exeter Racecourse