Cheltenham Festival issues parking warning for 2024 Gold Cup day

Poor weather means the ground is being churned up

People have been warned car parks at Cheltenham Racecourse will be "extremely wet" after heavy rain.

Gold Cup Day is expected to draw large crowds, with tickets sold out.

In a post on X, event organisers encouraged race-goers to avoid driving if possible and find alternative transport to the racecourse.

They said they would not be accepting any on-the-day car parking sales and would be preparing to help any stranded vehicles.

Earlier in the week, tractors were used to help stranded cars, with pictures showing boggy ground around Prestbury Park.

Car parks are likely to be extremely wet

Gates opened at 10:30 GMT with the Gold Cup opening ceremony expected to start at 12:20, with the first race at 13:30.

The full message from race organisers said: "Due to today's rain and recent adverse weather conditions, our car parks are extremely wet.

"If you are racing tomorrow we will not be accepting any on-the-day car parking sales.

"If you do drive and have difficulty parking, please put your hazard lights on and our team will assist you as soon as possible.

"We strongly advise that you consider alternative transport to the racecourse."