BAD weather failed to put a dampener on Cartmel's first evening meeting which attracted a good crowd and raised thousands of pounds for St Mary's Hospice in 1996.

RIDE: Crowds gathered at Cartmel to watch the course’s ground breaking first night race in 1996

RIDE: Crowds gathered at Cartmel to watch the course’s ground breaking first night race in 1996

The Cumbrian racecourse attracted more than 3,500 people who helped boast funds for the Ulverston-based hospice to the tune of about £15,000.

Race fans across the country were able to enjoy the runners and riders courtesy of Sky TV, which covered it for the first time.

RACE: Cartmel Race pictured on the bank holiday in 1996 as the riders clear the first jump

RACE: Cartmel Race pictured on the bank holiday in 1996 as the riders clear the first jump

Charles Barnett, general manager of the course, was delighted with the historic meeting. "We were very pleased despite the weather," he said.

"It started raining while the runners for the first race were in the parade ring.

"But there was still a reasonable crowd in excess of 3,500 who enjoyed a lovely evening's racing."

IN FRONT: Lead horse breaks from the group at Cartmel Race course in 1996

IN FRONT: Lead horse breaks from the group at Cartmel Race course in 1996