Hereford stages its first race meeting since September on Sunday - and officials are expecting strong fields.

Clerk of the Course Katie Stephens told BBC Hereford and Worcester that, with 159 declarations, some horses will be balloted out.

"Only 105 horses are allowed to compete around here due to stable factors," she said.

"Unfortunately, there will be some disappointed people, but there will be good sport and plenty of runners."

After a two-month break from racing, Katie Stephens says the track is heading into a hectic period.

"We raced at the beginning of September, having had a summer break before that.

"We race again now and have then got two fixtures per month until May, so it is going to be a busy period."

There will be no shortage of entertainment for the casual racing fan as the meeting has a 'beer and balti' theme, while Sunday will also see the running of Hereford's annual wife-carrying race.

"It doesn't have to be your wife," said Stephens, "but it's an 80-metre dash carrying your partner in some shape or form.

"There are different ways.

"The Estonian style is turning them upside down and carrying them in front of you like a pole.

"We haven't actually had anybody do that in years gone by, but it will be a bit of fun."

There are six races on Sunday's card (first race 1310 GMT).

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