A SCOTTISH racecourse is hoping its funeral packages will prove a dead cert with the families of deceased punters.
Hamilton Park racecourse say public demand has prompted them to create a series of funeral reception deals.
Family members can dedicate a race to their loved one from £650, broadcast live on Racing UK’s TV channel, as well as featuring in the day’s race card.
Relatives can also arrange for the ashes of deceased racing lovers to be scattered at the race course in a designated flower bed just beside the wining post, following it with a drinks reception to celebrate the life of their loved one.
Kathryn Jones, general manager with Sodexo Prestige at Hamilton Park, said: “We see so many aspects of life celebrated here at the racecourse from Christenings to school proms, graduations and weddings.”
“It may prove the perfect way to celebrate the life of someone who loved visiting the racecourse.”
Clients who choose to have a memorial race can hire an Executive box or a hospitality table in the prestigious Duke restaurant to continue the celebrations.
They can choose six members of their party to be accompanied to the Winner’s Enclosure to meet the winning owner and jockey before presenting them with the wining trophy.
There is also a pre-packaged catering option, ranging from tea and sandwiches to a sit down 2 course meal, from £5.50 per person.
The unique service was created after large numbers of requests from relatives of passionate annual members to be laid to rest at their favourite place.
Kathryn Jones added: “We get lots of requests to have ashes scattered on the track and many people asking to hold memorial races to commemorate loved ones who enjoyed spending time at Hamilton Park.”
Racing has been staged at Hamilton since 1782, and it is now part of Scotland’s great sporting heritage.
