The race meeting on the beach at Laytown on September the 1st has today been cancelled due to public health and safety concerns.

Full refunds will be issued for tickets already purchased, with the committee of the Meath venue saying they've had to make a "difficult decision" in scrapping the card.

“Laytown Races is in a unique position as we race under temporary facilities and our racetrack on the beach is a fantastic amenity, open to the public," Joe Collins, Laytown Races Chairman, said of that decision.

"As the health and safety of Laytown and Bettystown residents, sponsors, racegoers, jockeys, trainers, stable staff and racecourse staff is our number one priority, the committee had too many concerns about how we could implement social distancing during racing, especially on the beach and in the village.

“After consultation with all the key stakeholders including the Gardai, Horse Racing Ireland and the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Body, the committee reached the very difficult decision to cancel our 2020 race meeting but we are already looking forward to welcoming everyone back to our 2021 race fixture.

"The Laytown Races Committee would like to re-assure all customers, who have already paid for admission tickets and corporate hospitality, that they will receive a full refund.

"The refund process will start immediately, however, please bear in mind that the sales team are working remotely due to the current Government restrictions. We appreciate everyone’s patience during the refund process."