Ayr abandoned after 'severe storm'
Sunday 11 January 2015 11:16, UK
Ayr has abandoned Monday's jumps fixture after "a severe storm" caused structural damage to parts of the course.
Up to 20mm of rainfall has been forecast on Sunday, but clerk of the course Emma Marley had been hopeful the meeting would defeat the elements.
A 7.30am precautionary inspection on raceday morning was called earlier in the day, but the situation deteriorated markedly afterwards.
A statement issued by Ayr officials read: "We have had a severe storm, with high winds causing structural damage to buildings on course.
"The forecast is for winds to remain strong (50-60 mph) through today and tomorrow, thus the site has been deemed unsafe to stage a race meeting.
"We apologise for any inconvenience caused - safety is a priority."
Ayr clerk of the course Emma Marley added: "Since we walked the track this morning the weather has been pretty hairy.
"We've had thunder and lightning and gale force winds and, unfortunately, some roofs have blown off the stables. The ceiling is also coming down on the stands and the safety officer has deemed the site unsafe.
"It's a shame as the track is raceable, but the weather is not improving and we can't secure the site in time for racing.
"I'm glad we've made the call early to stop people travelling up unnecessarily."
