Perthshire North MSP, Mr John Swinney, has met with Hazel Peplinski, Chief Executive of Perth Racecourse.

The meeting, which took place following the Scottish Government’s announcement of £2m funding for horse racing, gave Mr Swinney the opportunity to discuss the challenges Covid has posed for the racecourse, future plans and the potential impact of the Scottish Government’s funding package. 

Commenting, Mr Swinney said:

“It was great to catch up with Hazel and other members of the team at Perth Racecourse.

“In normal times, Perth Racecourse provides an annual boost of £10m to the Perthshire economy. Moreover, it is widely recognised both amongst racing fans and the wider public as a venue of significant quality, whether it be for racing, socialising or business events.

“Accordingly, I am wholly supportive of the Scottish Government’s announcement of £2m in funding for horse racing across the country. This unprecedented level of support will hopefully allow Perth Racecourse to weather the storm and subsequently re-confirm its status as one of the premier racing venues in the country, whilst also contributing to the economic recovery of the region.”

Mrs Peplinski added:

“Mr Swinney completely understands how the lockdown has wiped out the hospitality and events industries and has kept in close contact throughout the year despite an impossibly busy diary. This welcome government support comes with the recognition that Perth racecourse, as a popular iconic rural venue, is an intrinsic part of the Perthshire community and therefore well placed to accelerate the region’s recovery when this virus is back under control.”