Racing fans from Ireland are set to contribute an estimated €45.6m to the local economy during the Cheltenham Festival over the next four days.
The festival anticipates around 55,000 attendees from Ireland rom an overall attendance of 275,000 with an estimated average spend of €830 per Irish punter. Bets are expected to accumulate to €1bn.
Accommodation prices rise by 650% compared to other periods, accrdoing to a report by the University of Gloucester. Local hotels are charging late bookers up to €923 for a room.
In response to complaints, Cheltenham revised ticket pricing policies, and introduced a 20pc discount for multiple day attendees.
In advance of the festival 18,000 aluminium trackway panels have been laid down covering an area of 129,600 square metres.
