Thousands of people are expected to descend on Huntingdon Racecourse on Bank Holiday Monday to sample Newcomers Day.

The track is offering a warm welcome to everyone on May 30 especially for those people who may never have been to the races before.

To add to the occasion, activities and attractions are being laid on with families and first-time visitors in mind.

Spectators will be able to go behind the scenes on tours, including the inner sanctum of the weighing room; take trips to the finishing line and one of the fences; watch farrier demonstrations; children can take pony rides and meet The Gruffalo who will be making appearances at intervals throughout the day; and there are bouncy castles and inflatables to be enjoyed too. On the track, there are two pony races.

The event is sponsored by McCarthy & Stone.

Sian Williams, general manager of Huntingdon Racecourse, said: “Our Newcomers Day is an innovation for 2016 and the fun events we are laying on are sure to be popular with visitors.

“Bank holidays are traditionally family days at Huntingdon Racecourse. I hope the racing and the trackside events will entice regular and new visitors alike, especially as it is a great chance for an affordable day out with all accompanied under 18s admitted free of charge.

“We know some people find horse racing a complex sport, and on this day we will try to answer everyone’s questions - though sadly even we cannot include finding all the winning horses amongst what all that we have on offer.”

The racecourse opens at 10.30am, two hours before the first race. Admission tickets are from £9 in advance.

Tickets for all meetings can be purchased in advance at a discount at http://huntingdon.thejockeyclub.co.uk or on the ticket line 0844 579 3007.