Explore British Racing’s Directory of Community and Education Activity…

The Directory maps nationwide activities from over 130 organisations that are harnessing racing’s assets to help people develop skills, increase physical activity and create a more diverse and inclusive sport.

Email lucy@racingtogether.co.uk to add your organisation or retrieve your login details.

05 March 2026

Newcastle Racecourse host first community connection event aimed at combating loneliness

On 31 January, Newcastle racecourse welcomed their local Age UK to join the racecourse team for a coffee morning. This is the first in a series of six events delivered by Racing Together designed to tackle loneliness, as part of a wider pilot programme that sits within the sport’s evolving social impact strategy.

Clerk of the Course, Jane Hedley welcomed the group and gave them an overview of the racecourse, and they were able to enjoy looking through memorabilia supplied by the National Horseracing Museum.

Historic photographs of Queen Elizabeth II visiting Newcastle Racecourse included in the memorabilia shared during the pilot programme.

Hannah Musgrove, Marketing and Communications Manager of Age UK Northumberland said: “We were over the moon to be invited to take part in the January event with Racing Together, hosted by Newcastle Racecourse. Around 25 members from our Ponteland social group enjoyed a wonderful morning of tea, coffee and plenty of biscuits, reminiscing over treasured Newcastle Racecourse memorabilia.

“A particular highlight was listening to Jane Hedley, whose talk brought such enthusiasm and insight to the occasion. It was a truly special experience that brought smiles and meaningful conversations to everyone who attended. We’re already looking forward to attending another fantastic day out at the racecourse!”

Ashleigh McLean, Senior Business Coordinator at Newcastle Racecourse added: “We were delighted to host a lovely coffee morning for members of Age UK Northumberland at the racecourse. Over tea, coffee and biscuits, everyone enjoyed looking through racecourse memorabilia, sharing memories, and catching up with friends old and new. There was plenty of laughter and wonderful conversation, making it a truly special morning for all who attended. We’re already looking forward to the next one!”

Racing memorabilia provided by the National Horseracing Museum during the pilot programme at Newcastle Racecourse.

Five other racecourses are taking part in the programme alongside local charity and community partners. Racecourses include Pontefract, Salisbury, Fontwell Park, Bath and Kempton Park, and both Wetherby and Wincanton racecourses have their own initiatives tackling similar issues in their local communities. Updates will follow on this exciting programme that is supported by The Racing Foundation and Levy Board.