The forthcoming NFU Mutual Basingstoke and Hampshire Hunt Point to Point promises to be the biggest and best yet.

A packed programme of races and activities has all the ingredients for a great day out for all the family at Hackwood Park, near Basingstoke, n Sunday March 12.

There will be six point to point races on the traditional parkland course, including the Farmtech Restricted Race, the NFU Basingstoke Ladies Open Race and the Gwynn Dental and Quilter Cheviot Open Maiden Races.

Children will love the pony racing which starts the day’s events at 11.30am, as well as the Hampshire Hunt parade of hounds at noon, with the main races starting at 1pm.

There is also a fun fair, bouncy castle and face painting for the kids, plus trade stands. There will be plenty of food and drink vendors, but visitors are also encouraged to bring their own picnic.

Entry costs £10 per adult, £5 for under 18s, while under 12s go free.

Premium Inner Car Parking will allow race-goers to get even closer to the action on the track and can be pre-booked for £40 if paid before 1 March.

Charlie Corbett, of the Hampshire Hunt, said: “We’re really excited about this year’s event which promises to be bigger and better than ever before, with lots of activities to suit all tastes, both on and off the track.

"We would like to thank our sponsors, including NFU Mutual Basingstoke, for their continued support and look forward to a great day’s point to point racing.”

For more details call Vanessa Vasey on 07977 920705, or email vanessavasey@hotmail.co.uk or visit www.hackwoodparkracecourse.co.uk

Mark Wilson of NFU Mutual Basingstoke said, “We are very happy to be supporting the Hampshire Hunt Point to Point which has become a highlight of the winter calendar in the area, attracting more and more people every year. We look forward to welcoming visitors at our stand.”