THE first official trials have taken place at the new Great Leighs Racecourse, with 20 horses working over distances from five to ten furlongs.

The trials took place on Sunday on the Polytrack course, an 8-furlong, left-handed oval, built to exceed the British Horseracing Authority's minimum specifications.

Ed Dunlop, one of the trainers whose horses took part in the trials, said: "I was very impressed with the racecourse. The jockeys who rode for me were happy with the track.

"Obviously, not all of the racecourse is finished yet and there are things that need ironing out. But I was happy to bring the horses and glad I came. Great Leighs will be a huge asset."

Another trainer, Gay Kelleway, added: "There hasn't been a new racecourse in my lifetime, so it gave me a real buzz to come here.

"It will take all-weather to a new level. It should go global; it is built like an American track and, providing the prize-money is on offer, it's going to attract a lot of interest from overseas, not just Britain and Ireland.

"It's in a very good catchment area to attract new owners and syndicates."

Preview race meetings will be held at the racecourse this month and next, with admission by invitation only. The first meeting open to the public takes place on May 28.