Cheltenham Festival hit by train delays on opening day

Hundreds of people heading to the opening day of the Cheltenham Festival had their journeys disrupted by a trespassing incident just hours before the first race.

With more than 50,000 people expected on Champions Day, most people chose to take the train; Great Western Railway services from Bristol were packed with racing fans.

However, many services faced disruption from 10am due to a trespassing incident which blocked all lines of the track near Gloucester.

In a statement to passengers, National Rail said: A trespass incident in the Gloucester area means all lines are blocked. “As a result, trains passing through Gloucester may be cancelled, delayed by up to 25 minutes or revised.”

National Rail said disruption was expected until 12.30pm.

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A train announcer on a GWR service told passengers just before 11am that the trespasser had been caught by Bristol Transport Police.

But there is still a queue for services waiting to arrive at Cheltenham Spa.

Once at the station, racing enthusiasts can take a 45-minute walk to Prestbury Park or board one of dozens of buses specially prepared for the event; return tickets cost £10.

The first race on Champion Day is the Supreme Novice race at 13.20.

This year organizers Jockey Club hope to end the downward trend in attendances with changes such as dropping the price of a pint of Guinness and opening more outdoor areas for drinking.

Also on Wednesday, Women’s Day will return after a three-year hiatus.