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In pictures: Kelso races behind closed doors

Reuters Empty standReuters
The general public was not admitted to the Borders track

A horse racing meeting has been held behind closed doors for the first time in Britain.

Kelso racecourse in the Scottish Borders led the way following Scottish government advice on gatherings of more than 500 people due to coronavirus.

Courses in England and Wales are due to follow suit from Tuesday.

Managing director Jonathan Garratt said a lot of essential staff were needed to run a race meeting but the general public would not be admitted.

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Jockeys and other "essential staff" were the only people allowed to attend

A six-race card was staged at the Borders track on Monday.

Another meeting later in the month - on 21 March - is also planned to be held behind closed doors.

PA Media RacecoursePA Media
Kelso was the first track in Britain to close to the public but others will follow later in the week
Reuters JockeyReuters
Another meeting is planned behind closed doors at Kelso later this month
PA Media Course viewPA Media
Six races in total were planned for the day
PA Media RacingPA Media
Reuters One man watchingReuters
Reuters Empty courseReuters

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