Cheltenham Racecourse is preparing to welcome over 30,000 visitors for the much-anticipated November Meeting, taking place from Friday 14 to Sunday 16 November 2025. As one of the town’s most prestigious events, the November Meeting brings a significant boost to the local economy, supporting hospitality, retail, and transport sectors.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both residents and racegoers, Cheltenham Borough Council and its partners have introduced a range of enhanced safety and operational measures. These improvements reflect the town’s commitment to delivering high-quality events that benefit the community while maintaining public safety and wellbeing.
During race week, the council continues to promote initiatives that keep Cheltenham clean and vibrant, including tackling illegal taxi operations and supporting a safe evening and night-time economy. Women’s safety is a primary focus, and licensed venues will again operate the ‘Ask for Angela/Clive’ schemes, offering discreet support to anyone feeling unsafe.
In response to feedback from local communities, Cheltenham Borough Council and Gloucestershire Constabulary have introduced additional facilities and patrols on Friday daytime and Saturday evening to enhance the visitor experience and address concerns around anti-social behaviour.
A visible presence of council and police officers will help ensure a welcoming environment, supported by the racecourse’s ‘Love Our Turf’ campaign, which aims to deter undesirable behaviour and encourages respectful and positive conduct from all attendees.
Cllr Victoria Atherstone, cabinet member for safety and communities, said: “Cheltenham’s horse racing events are globally celebrated, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, providing a welcome boost to local businesses.
“However, we recognise the impact on our residents and are committed to minimising disruptions and addressing anti-social behaviour where it occurs. We have taken significant steps this year and will continue to refine our efforts post-event, preparing for an event better experience in March 2026.”
Inspector Steven Benbow of Gloucestershire Constabulary added: “Each year, we carefully consider public feedback from previous races, and the enhanced measures have significantly improved our services and protections throughout the town.
“We urge both racegoers and residents to report any incidents of anti-social behaviour or crimes they encounter this week. Your input is crucial to ensuring everyone’s safety.”
Supporting a safe and successful event
The council is reminding visitors to use only licensed taxis and private hire vehicles. Racegoers and residents are advised to pre-book private hire vehicles or use taxis licensed by Cheltenham Borough Council from authorised ranks. Vehicles should display a roof sign and a Cheltenham licence plate.
A zero-tolerance approach to unlawful taxi activity remains in place. Cheltenham Borough Council licensing officers, supported by Tewkesbury Borough Council, and Wolverhampton City Council, will work alongside Avon and Somerset Constabulary’s taxi compliance officer to conduct checks on vehicles to ensure compliance and safety.
Other measures in place include:
- Increased support from voluntary sector partners in the evening and night-time economy.
- Additional temporary toilets across town and key routes to the racecourse.
- A police community hub on the High Street outside Marks and Spencer.
- Extra taxi marshals at the Promenade taxi ranks.
- Joint inspections by the council’s licensing team and police to ensure public safety standards are met across licensed venues and licensed sexual entertainment venues.
Cheltenham Racecourse and its partners are committed to delivering a safe, enjoyable, and economically beneficial event for all. The November Meeting is a highlight in the town’s calendar, and preparations are well underway to ensure a pleasant experience for visitors and residents alike.
Residents are encouraged to share their feedback with local ward members to help shape future events.
For media enquiries, contact: communications, telephone 01242 264231, email [email protected]
Image: Runners and riders compete in the RSA Chase on Ladies Day, during the Cheltenham Festival. Credit Visit Cheltenham
Further information:
The November Meeting
Ask for Angela
