Chepstow Racecourse became a ‘House Of Fun’ as over 8,000 fans descended on the venue to see Madness play live.

The ska legends, which played Chepstow as part of their A Day At The Races and Other Places tour, attracted a bumper crowd with fans sporting fezes, bowlers and replica saxes to join the party, with Suggs as their ringmaster.

With more than 40 years of hit-making and 15 top 10 singles to their name, Madness had a treasure trove of party numbers to call upon to keep the audience entertained, and as One Step Beyond gave way to other hits like Baggy Trousers, Our House and It Must Be Love it was clear the night was going to be a memorable one.

 The bands infectious warmth rubbed off on the crowd, who raised their voices throughout, even calling the boys back on for an encore.

The band responded by coming back on to sing their ska anthem, Madness.

Racegoer and Madness fan, Sarah Arnold, 35 from Monmouthshire, said: “What a great idea to bring people to the races! The atmosphere has been brilliant.

“It’s been great to see so many people coming to watch the races before the gig and, as a result, getting involved in the sport. Its worked really well and I’m looking forward to more of the same when All Saints play on Ladies night!”

Phil Bell, Executive Director at Chepstow Racecourse, said: “It was lovely to see so many people enjoying the party atmosphere that Madness brought with them – what a perfect way to round off a great evening of racing.

“We are pleased to see more and more people coming to Chepstow not simply for an enjoyable day of racing, but also for special events like these.

“On July 12, we welcome 90s chart toppers, All Saints, to the course for a live performance on our Ladies Evening. There will also be £1,000 up for grabs in the Best Dressed Lady competition on the night.”