Racecourses on standby as England chase World Cup final spot
Southwell and Stratford will change race times if the Three Lions beat Croatia on Wednesday
WORLD Cup fever has swept the country, and racecourses are putting plans in place in case England make the final.
Racing takes place at Southwell and Stratford on Sunday, and both tracks have taken precautions to avoid a clash with the football.
The Three Lions face Croatia in the semi-final at 7pm on Wednesday, and if Gareth Southgate's men make it through that match they will face either France or Belgium at 4pm UK time in Moscow.
Racing at Southwell is currently due to get under way at 2.20pm and finish at 5.35pm, but that will change should England progress, with the first race pencilled in for 12.15pm and the last for 3.25pm.
Southwell's clerk of the course, Roderick Duncan, said: "I think it was a fairly straightforward decision.
"Obviously we hope England get through and if they do, moving the races back will allow everyone to watch them in the World Cup final. I'm sure it would be a great occasion."
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Racing at Stratford would also be moved back by almost two hours, with racing starting at 12.30pm and finishing at 3.35pm.
Racecourse manager Ilona Barnett said: "We've had thousands of emails and calls about it and we felt it suited everybody.
"If England don't get to the final, we'll go back to the original race times."
However, race times at Perth in Scotland are set to remain as previously scheduled. The first race is due off at 2.10pm, with the last race run at 5.30pm.
