A north-east charity is preparing for a fundraising racing event with a difference, as camels will compete in contests as well as horses.
The first ever Day At The Races, which will take place at Castle Fraser later this month, will raise funds for North East Sensory Services (Ness).
The event has been billed as a traditional race day with a “twist in the tail”.
Young jockeys will race on ponies, and Warwickshire-based Joseph’s Camels – the only specialist company of its kind in the country – will provide professional riders for a separate contest.
Those in attendance will be able to have a flutter and all the cash raised will go towards blind and deaf people in the area.
The bash has been organised by George Walker Event Management, and is sponsored by CHC Helicopter, with the hope that it will have a “traditional race day feel”.
Yesterday the firm held a special preview day at the castle with professional racehorses, provided by trainer Jackie Stephen, which will also be displayed on the day.
Graham Findlay, Ness chief executive, said: “We are delighted to be working with George Walker Event Management to run this unique event.
“We support 6,500 blind and deaf people across the north-east and we hope that this amazing day out will generate vital funds to support the wide range of services Ness provides.”
As well as a best dressed men and ladies contest, there will be food and bars and other shopping stalls available at the historic site near Sauchen.
Mr Walker said: “I started my career as an apprentice jockey and have always wanted to hold an event in Aberdeenshire, because currently you have to go to Perth for the races.
“It’s going to have that feel to it, but also has a twist, it’s a different kind of event for Aberdeenshire.”
For more information on the event, which takes place on Saturday, June 29, people can visit www.dayattheraces.org
