CHESTER Races will not go ahead today (Friday, September 9) or tomorrow (Saturday, Septmeber 10), after all horseracing in the UK was suspended following the death of Her Majesty The Queen.

The British Horseracing Authority announced on Thursday evening that all racing was suspended for Thursday and Friday.

It followed that up with a further statement on Friday to say all planned race fixtures for Saturday would also be cancelled.

In a statement, the authority said: "Her Majesty has been one of the greatest and most influential supporters in the history of horseracing. Her passion for racing and the racehorse shone brightly throughout her life, not only through her close involvement in breeding and racing horses, but in her roles as a patron of The Jockey Club and Thoroughbred Breeders Association, and as the figurehead of Royal Ascot.

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"From her first-ever winner Monaveen, through stars such as Carrozza and Highclere, to the unforgettable Estimate, Her Majesty The Queen has helped to shape the breed and contributed to moments on the track that will go down in sporting folklore.

"It is right, therefore, that all racing is suspended...as we begin to grieve Her Majesty’s passing and remember her extraordinary life and contribution to our sport and our nation."

A statement from Chester Racecourse confirmed both meetings would be off.

Posting on social media on Friday, it said: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Her Majesty The Queen. Chester Racecourse extends our sincere condolences to His Majesty The King, other members of the Royal Family and all those affected.

"We and the whole of British racing are in mourning. Her Majesty has been one of the greatest and most influential supporters in the history of horseracing. Her passion for racing and the racehorse shone brightly throughout her life. 

"As an ongoing mark of respect it has been determined that, alongside the cancellation of fixtures on 8 and 9 September, all racing will also be cancelled tomorrow, Saturday 10 September.

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"All racegoers have been contacted regarding a full refund. We ask that you remain patient and wait for further communication from us. We would like to apologise any inconvenience this may cause.

"Thank you for your continued patience and support."

Chester Racecourse is due to hold its final racing fixture of the 2022 season on Saturday, September 24.