STRATFORD Racecourse is already gearing up for its first National Hunt meeting of 2005.

And, it certainly promises to be a thrilling starter on Monday, March 14 -the week of the newly extended four-day Cheltenham Festival.

Irish Day is always an afternoon to remember for local racegoers and this year's promises to be no exception.

Gates open at 12 noon with the first of the seven races under starter's orders at 2.10pm.

There will be Guinness on tap and live music from the Milestone Band.

Admission costs just £6 to the Centre Course and picnic area with a place in Tattersalls costing £12 and the Club Enclosure £16.

Accompanied children under 16 are admitted free.

Luddington Road will stage 15 meetings this year with almost half on a Sunday afternoon.

The first of these is on April 17, while the May schedule includes the Intrum Justitia Meeting on Friday evening, May 20 and Saturday, may 21.

The popular Family Day will take place on Sunday, July 10 followed seven days later by Ladies Day.

Meetings: Monday, March 14; Sunday, April 17; Friday, may 20, Saturday, May 21; Sunday, June 5; Sunday, June 12; Sunday, July 10; Sunday, July 17; Thursday, July 28; Sunday, August 14; Saturday, September 3; Sunday, September 11; Saturday, October 15; Thursday, October 27 (Countryside Day); Monday, November 7.

For more information on what the racecourse can offer, ring 01789 267949 or e-mail info@stratfordracecourse.net. Alternatively, log on to the website at www.stratfordracecourse.net