A NEW era at Cartmel Races started over the bank holiday with the arrival of a new managing director who has big plans for the South Lakeland course.

More than 30,000 racegoers gathered in the picturesque setting to be part of what has become one of the top five meets, in terms of crowds, in England’s racing calendar.

New boss Jonathan Garrattt said he had a number of ideas to make the ‘unique’ racing day even better.

“I would like to improve the stable area, which at the moment is okay, but with some work could be better.

“Also, I would like to work on the track to make sure Cartmel is still viewed as a competitive racing event.

“There are issues with the traffic at the moment and I would like to work on access to the event so members of the public can get in as quickly as possible.”

He added: “Cartmel is completely unique – there is nowhere else in the country where crowds can watch from inside the race course.”

People can watch all around the track and it makes the event have a party-like atmosphere.

“Cartmel is not grand nor does it pretend to be so and that is its charm - it is informal, friendly event and I’m very happy to be involved with it.”

Click below to view our photo gallery from Cartmel Races.