SALISBURY Racecourse’s race meet scheduled for Wednesday has been abandoned due to the forecast extreme temperatures.

The decision follows confirmation from the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) that fixtures at Salisbury, Kempton Park, Worcester and Ffos Las will not go ahead after the Met Office issued a Red Extreme Heat Warning covering parts of the Midlands, southern England and Wales.

The warning is in place from 9am on Wednesday until 9pm on Thursday with temperatures expected to climb to dangerous levels.

Under the BHA’s hot weather policy, race meetings must be abandoned if a racecourse falls within a red warning area.

The rules also prohibit horses from travelling through affected regions, making it impossible for many competitors to safely reach the venues.

The move comes as Wiltshire braces for temperatures approaching 39C, with schools, businesses and event organisers across the county taking steps to deal with the exceptional heat.

Racegoers with tickets are advised to check directly with Salisbury Racecourse for further information regarding refunds or rearranged fixtures.