The latest column from Helen Willis, Carlisle Racecourse's general manager.

We can’t wait to welcome punters, runners and riders back to Carlisle Racecourse this weekend as we prepare to host an action-packed afternoon of entertainment.

Our seven-race card will get underway at 12.30pm on Sunday with some great entries across the fields, including in the Listed Houghton Mares Chase which will be run over two miles and four furlongs.

Last year’s winner of the race (held at Aintree), Zambella, is expected to make a bid for back-to-back titles while Annie Mc, now owned by the new Coral Racing Club, will also hopefully line up.

Before racing begins, Tony Dobbin will be joining us for a Tipster Talk in the parade ring at 12.15pm, so make sure you arrive early to hear what he has to say and hopefully be in with the chance of picking some winners.

I’m really excited to see the racecourse come alive again after we sadly had to abandon racing earlier this month following heavy rain – and while we were all gutted that proceedings were halted it did provide us with a lovely opportunity to donate flowers and food from the day to the local community.

Moving forward, I’m really looking forward to our Christmas Jumper Raceday on Sunday, December 11, where we’ll be running a competition for...you guessed it – the best Christmas jumper!

Now is also the perfect time to start thinking about presents for the big day, and with that in mind I’d like to remind you of our Annual Badge offer, something that could be the perfect gift for any racing fan.

The badge not only reduces the cost of coming racing at Carlisle, but also includes some fantastic benefits and discounts at other racecourses. You’d also be guaranteed exclusive use of the Annual Badge Holders Suite located right next to the parade ring for all fixtures held at Carlisle Racecourse. Packages start from £215 and you can find out more by visiting www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/carlisle

We really hope you can join us this weekend for what we are sure will be a wonderful afternoon of racing!