PICTURES: Excitement of Cheltenham racecourse comes to Inverness to raise £29k for Highland Hospice
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The excitement of the Cheltenham Festival races came to an Inverness restaurant to raise almost £30,000 for Highland Hospice.
Horse racing fans cheered on their favourites at Cafe 1which hosted its 20th annual event to mark four days of world-class racing including the famous Gold Cup.
Restaurant owner Norman MacDonald MBE said at least £29,520 had been raised.
"It is an unbelievable amount," said Mr MacDonald who outlined the continued popularity of the event which has raised hundreds of thousands over the years.
"It is good fun and it is something which is in the middle of the working week. It is something which is a bit different.
"Inverness doesn't have its own race course so it is an opportunity for people to get that experience and enjoy it – the noise, the buzz and the excitement."
He said the event drew a range of people including businesses, hospice supporters and groups of friends of all ages.
"A lot of young guys came dressed in their suits while women wore fascinators," he said.
The event also included an auction with one of the prizes including what was described as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to co-pilot alongside Snowman Rally Champion Donnie MacDonald at the opening race of the Scottish Tarmac Championship at Knockhill in February 2025.
Mr MacDonald paid tribute to the generosity of the rally driver, who is also providing the license for the successful bidder, as well as everyone else who provided prizes or supported the event.
