Hazel Peplinski, Perth Racecourse Chief Executive, said:

"Perth Racecourse is extremely keen to play its part in the horse-racing industry’s collective effort to provide safe sporting enjoyment and to help restart the economy, especially in badly hit rural areas.

"With our first scheduled behind closed doors fixture not until July 21, we look forward to learning best practice from our colleagues at Ayr, Musselburgh and Hamilton Park who will restart earlier, should all go to plan.

It is exciting to think there could be some competitive action on these three Scottish tracks next month.

"Here at Perth we remain really busy – there has been some remedial work done to the track in these dry conditions and now the planning for mid-July can really begin in earnest. There is a long road ahead and we must stay nimble and realise nothing is set in stone, with the reminder by the First Minister earlier today to exert extreme caution and patience to avoid undoing all recent progress in controlling the virus.

"However after such a long time in lockdown, with so much uncertainty, to have some confirmed dates for the intentional restart of some racing - albeit behind closed doors and assuming the permissions from the Scottish Government and BHA - gives us a target to work to and we just need to remain patient and reactive to circumstances."

Today’s announcement means that Perth’s previously advertised fixtures in July and August are now abandoned.

All ticket holders should look out for a transfer/refund email from Perth Racecourse and are thanked for their patience and understanding while Perth’s small team handle everything that is involved in these changes during a challenging period for all.