Jamie Webster at Haydock Park Racecourse Review

DISCLOSURE – THIS EXPERIENCE WAS GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST/S FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW.

Reviewed by Alison Rood

Summer has officially begun and so have the Jockey Club’s award winning music events held at race parks across the country.

Last night we headed to their Haydock event and were treated to the sun, a fabulous night of racing AND a performance from the incredible local talent, Jamie Webster.

There are tickets to suit everyone’s vibe and budget, with on the gate prices ranging from £33 to £100+ (it’s worth noting that cheaper prices are available if you pre book online!)

If you’re after a bit of luxury, the premier lounge may be for you with its private bar and balcony. The county enclosure is a good middle ground with great views of the finishing post. Or if you’re on a budget the grandstand and paddock is a great choice. Wherever you choose, you’re in for a good night of racing and live music.

Regardless of where you end up, one thing I love about this place is that they actively encourage a “dress for comfort” dress code. Not everyone enjoys dressing up to the nines, whereas some love to get their glad rags on. Here, it’s all about enjoyment and they want you to feel yourself whilst doing it. So we saw a wide variety of outfits ranging from casual shorts and t-shirts, to evening dresses and heels. Everyone was doing their own thing and just enjoying the incredible atmosphere.

Parking is available, and was something we utilised. There was a queue when we arrived, and once we entered it became a bit clearer as to why. There was a zebra crossing running through the parking, which was great for pedestrians, but slowed the cars down. I think because the day is so spread out due to it being races AND a music event, the arrival times of people were probably staggered. Everyone arriving at the same time would have made the parking situation even worse.

Once we arrived we went for a look around. There are plenty of food and drink options, none had massive queues which meant it was quick and easy to get served and get onto the next thing. Prices are what you’d expect for this kind of place/event – not extortionate but definitely on the pricier side.

Everywhere (until the music bit at the end!) was super clean. No betting slips strewn all over the floor like some other races I’ve been to. Plenty of bins and staff were cleaning up as well.

Winners’ circle was a great experience, seeing the horses pre and post-race added to the excitement of the day.

The timing of the day was great, with there being a decent amount of time between the last race and Jamie Webster starting. It didn’t feel like a rush to get to the performance area, but it also didn’t feel like you were waiting an eternity for him to start.

The location of the stage was great, with a natural slope helping ensure everyone got a decent view, something which me as a 5ft nothing female sometimes struggles with! The production and equipment was faultless. I’ve been to a few outdoor gigs and most have sound or technical issues at some point in the set. This performance however went without a hitch!

Jamie was fantastic, performing a number of his well known songs as well as throwing in a couple of new ones. He really engaged with the crowd, explaining the meaning/story behind each song he played. He’s such a positive influence to all, trying to offer words of encouragement, support and community. It was great to see younger people in the audience on their parent’s shoulders – hopefully they took on board the important messages Jamie was trying to convey.

There was a bit of angst in the crowd and Jamie stopped what he was doing to get it sorted – playing mediator and making sure it got sorted.

All in all it was a fantastic and well organised day!!

Information about future events can be found: www.thejockeyclub.co.uk

Rating: 4.5/5 (only issue was the parking – getting in/out)