Cheltenham Racecourse is reporting a 30% increase in conference and events bookings from the retail sector year on year, as it re-affirms its target of becoming the South West’s top meeting and exhibition destination.

The Racecourse say this year has brought a marked increase in bookings from the retail market, including L’Oreal Professionnel, Joules Clothing, Waitrose and Midcountries Co-operative.

The Centaur, which can be transformed into a 2,250 seated auditorium, has proved the most popular space for bookings.

It markets itself as being located only one mile from Cheltenham town centre, accessible from the Midlands’ major roads, including the M40 and M5, as well as direct train links to London and Bristol. There are10,000 free car parking spaces