AYR Racecourse chiefs have admitted the loss of the Scottish National is devastating.

But they fully understand huge concerns around the coronavirus.

David Brown, Managing Director Ayr Racecourse, commenting on the cancellation of the Coral Scottish Grand National Festival due to Covid-19 outbreak which led to the BHA’s suspension of British racing till the end of April, said :“This is a devastating blow to Ayr Racecourse but the safety and health of the public has to take priority.

“The Coral Scottish Grand National was already a sell-out for the Saturday of the two day meeting with 19,000 tickets sold. It is the biggest and busiest day of the year in the Scottish racing calendar and to lose this level of revenue seriously impacts our business. It is an extremely challenging time for everyone concerned.

“I am hoping that many of our loyal customers will transfer their bookings to the 2021 Coral Scottish Grand National Festival and by doing so help support the Racecourse at this difficult time. For those who do not wish to do this there will be a full refund.

“There will be difficult decisions ahead and we must now focus on coming out the other side whenever that may be and be ready to race again.”