It may prove possible to run the Royal Ascot races behind closed doors, dependent on Government and public health policy and the approval of the BHA for us to re-start racing.

This would be for the benefit of the industry, our valued partners and suppliers and our television audiences at home and internationally.

Planning for this is now our complete focus and we will update on progress as and when we can. Customers who have already paid for entry and hospitality at Royal Ascot will be refunded in full in the usual way as quickly as possible and we will start the process of communicating with them, initially by email, immediately.

We thank everyone in advance for their patience and understanding in completing this substantial task given the challenging practical circumstances of the current national lockdown.

The pandemic will have a significant financial impact on our business in 2020, along with so many others.

Nevertheless, Ascot racecourse will come through this crisis and we look forward to being able to welcome racegoers back when it is safe to do so.

Meanwhile, our thoughts are with all those grieving and suffering as a result of COVID-19.

We offer heartfelt thanks to our wonderful NHS staff, key workers and volunteers for all their selfless dedication.

Guy Henderson Chief Executive Ascot Racecourse 7th April 2020 Please note, we kindly ask that customers do not contact the racecourse.

We will contact all bookers for both Royal Ascot and the May Racing Weekend with details of the refund process.

Please click here to read the Statement on behalf of Ascot Racecourse about May Racing Weekend