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Richard Layton Charity Raceday 2026

Thursday 16th April 2026

Key Information:
GATES OPEN

15:00 tbc

FIRST RACE

16:55 tbc

LAST RACE

19:50 tbc

RACE TYPE

Jumps

RACES

6 to 8

GOING
TBA

Richard Layton Charity Racenight – Thursday 16 April 2026

Racing for a Cause

Join us at Hereford Racecourse on Thursday, 16 April 2026 for the Richard Layton Charity Race Night. This special fixture combines top-class jump racing with a fantastic opportunity to support charity, creating a night of excitement, entertainment, and generosity.

Link to the 2024 Charity Raceday video here

In 2023 alone, seven farmers in Herefordshire tragically took their own lives – including Richard Layton, a much-loved husband, father, and member of our farming community. His story, and those of others like him, remind us why we cannot look away from the silent mental health crisis impacting rural life. In 2024, three Herefordshire farmers died in this tragic way – a lesser number but no less devastating. This year, we will be raising money for FOUR fantastic charities, and we would love you to join us again.

Making Mental Health the Front Runner

The 2026 event promises to be an unforgettable experience, with lunch taking place before racing. Highlights include:

  • A delicious two-course lunch with a welcome glass of fizz
  • A full racecard with the first race under starters orders late afternoon
  • Star guests from the racing world
  • An exclusive auction featuring money-can’t-buy prizes
  • An unmissable raffle
  • Live music and hog roast after the last race and into the evening

There are a limited number of Race Sponsorship Packages available – but HURRY! It is first-come, first-served. So, don’t miss out.

GOLD – RACE SPONSORSHIP - Table of 10 people - £3,500 (+ vat), includes:

  • 10 Members’ Enclosure Tickets to a Racecourse boasting one of the best views of the action in the UK
  • Name YOUR race: Put YOUR name to one of seven races on the exciting Jumps card, which will be etched in sporting history
  • Advertise yourself or your company in the Official Racecard – a keepsake forever
  • Your sponsorship will also be carried in national newspapers and online media!
  • Opportunity to take advantage of on-the-day digital and banner advertising at Hereford Racecourse
  • Exclusive access to the Parade Ring – be part of the action, viewing the runners in your race ahead of the start
  • Make a groom’s day by judging the ‘Best Turned-Out’ horse
  • Present the prizes to winning connections of YOUR race and have your photo taken with them – a fantastic memento of the day!
  • Receive 10 Official Racecards for you and your guests, plus additional Racecards if required
  • A welcome glass of fizz for yourself and your guests
  • Shake hands with some of racing’s biggest stars – and have your pictures taken with them
  • Get valuable and exclusive insight on the afternoon’s upcoming action from informed racing judges and ‘in-the-know’ experts
  • Settle down to enjoy a sumptuous two-course meal before the action starts
  • Get your bids in for our auction with fabulous money-can’t-buy prizes
  • Chance your arm to win some astounding prizes in a grand raffle
  • Live music and hog roast after the last race and into the evening

SILVER – Table of 10 people - £1,500 (+ vat), includes:

  • 10 Members’ Enclosure Tickets.
  • 10 Official Racecards
  • A welcome glass of fizz for yourself and your guests.
  • Meet some of racing’s biggest names – and have your pictures taken with them.
  • Get valuable and exclusive insight on the afternoon’s upcoming action from informed racing judges and ‘in-the-know’ experts
  • Enjoy a sumptuous two-course meal before the action starts.
  • Get your bids in for our auction with fabulous money-can’t-buy prizes.
  • Chance your arm to win some astounding prizes in a grand raffle.
  • Live music and hog roast after the last race and into the evening

BRONZE

We would love to see you on the day. But if you cannot make this fantastic afternoon’s sport among friends, we would greatly welcome any support you can offer, such as:

  • Sponsorship: Racecourse banner advertisement
  • Donate raffle prizes
  • Gift vouchers
  • Monetary donations

If you have any questions or wish to donate, please contact any of the organisers:

Sue Howell: sue@wyevalleygroup.co.uk 07900 926 555

Marie-Louise Layton: marie-louise.layton@wyevalleygroup.co.uk 07818 576 873

A fabulous evening’s racing will be augmented by a raffle and auction, and racegoers will have the opportunity to buy raffle tickets and donate at the charities’ respective stalls.

  • We Are Farming Minds
  • Midlands Air Ambulance
  • Injured Jockeys Fund
  • Herefordshire MIND

A Night to Remember

Our season finale racenight offers a unique, lively experience for visitors of all ages. Arrive in the early evening and soak up the atmosphere as the course comes alive with lights, crowds, and anticipation. Whether you’re a dedicated racing fan or simply looking for a memorable night out, this fixture has something for everyone.

Hospitality & Fine Dining

For those seeking a premium experience, our Snaffles Restaurant hospitality package provides the perfect setting. Please note this restaurant is separate from the charity restaurant. Enjoy a three-course dinner, reserved seating, a racecard, and table service—all with exceptional views of the track. It’s an ideal way to combine fine dining, exciting racing, and the knowledge that your evening is supporting a worthwhile cause.

Bars and food outlets will also be available throughout the course, offering a variety of snacks, meals, and drinks to keep you refreshed as the racing unfolds.

Supporting Charity

The Richard Layton Charity Racenight is more than just a day at the races—it’s an opportunity to make a difference. By attending, you are helping to raise funds for important causes, making your evening not only enjoyable but meaningful.

WE ARE FARMING MINDS

WAFM is a registered charity that helps raise mental health awareness in the rural communities of Herefordshire and support the wellbeing of farmers.

Set up by Sam and Emily Stables, its aim is to reach out to the farming community to break down stigma, open up support and say to every farmer ‘you are not alone’.

WAFM provide 24-hour support, funding for professional counselling if required, mental health training to individuals and professionals in the farming community, resources and advice for further help, social events to combat isolation and bring farmers together, reassurance through personal experience that things can and will get better and a befriending service for people that are lonely or isolated.

If you are a Herefordshire farmer or you are concerned about someone you know and want someone to talk to, you can call the We Are Farming Minds 24/7 helpline on 0808 802 0070 or text 07786 203130

MIDLANDS AIR AMBULANCE

Midlands Air Ambulance Charity is responsible for funding and operating three air ambulance helicopters and three critical care cars serving the communities of six Midlands counties: Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, the West Midlands and Worcestershire.

INJURED JOCKEYS’ FUND

The Injured Jockeys Fund provides appropriate support in a prompt and sympathetic manner to those jockeys past or present who are injured, unable to ride, or generally in need.

HEREFORDSHIRE MIND

Herefordshire Mind is a local registered mental health charity serving people across Herefordshire. It aims to ensure that no one has to face a mental health problem alone, offering practical and emotional support, including community services, counselling, support groups, a Safe Haven for those in distress, and residential and outreach support tailored to individual needs. The organisation also raises awareness about mental health issues and works to promote wellbeing and understanding in the local community, operating independently but affiliated with the national Mind charity.

Booking & Tickets

Tickets are recommended to be booked in advance to guarantee entry and secure the best value. All bookings made through our website or by phone are free of booking fees, and Early Bird offers are available for those who plan ahead.

Be Part of the Action

Don’t miss this chance to combine thrilling racing, elegant hospitality, and charitable giving. Join us at Hereford Racecourse on Thursday 16 April 2026 for the Richard Layton Charity Racenight—an evening where every race counts both on and off the track.

Book your tickets now and experience a night of racing with heart.

See more details

Our hospitality & restaurant packages are available through the website of our official partner Seat Unique.

Admission - Early Bird

Book ahead on our Early Bird rates - the best value available!

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£19.00
-
+
Total 
£0

Admission - Early Bird GROUP (10+)

Discounted admission for groups of 10+, with access as outlined above.

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£16.00
Minimum: 10
-
+
Total 
£0

Thirsty Day at the Races *

LIMITED AVAILABILITY


Double the refreshment, double the fun: enjoy two drinks of your choice — beers, wines, or softs — along with your official racecard. Take in all the racing action from prime viewing spots with access to the Grandstand, bars, food outlets, and key areas — your go-to for a refreshing, value-packed day of racing excitement.

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£25.00
-
+
Total 
£0

a Day at the Races *

LIMITED AVAILABILITY


Make the most of a Day at the Races with a refreshing pint of Carlsberg or soft drink, a delicious, freshly baked hot pie, and your raceday programme. Take in all the racing action from prime viewing spots with access to the Grandstand, bars, food outlets, and key areas — everything you need for a winning day out.

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£27.00
-
+
Total 
£0

Racecard Message

Celebrate in style by crafting an exclusive message for the racecard! Your personalised greeting for any special occassion will be featured in the racecard and announced during the event for all to see and hear!

Your personalised message (up to 20 words) should be submitted at least seven days before the event, by responding to your confirmation email or sending it to info@hereford-racecourse.co.uk. There are a limited number of allocated spaces within the racecard, so be quick to secure yours!

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£60.00
Maximum: 1
-
+
Total 
£0

From how to find us to what you can bring along, click here to get answers to all your questions.

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