THE Coral Welsh National, Wales' biggest and most popular horse race has been rescheduled for early January.

The race, at Chepstow Racecourse, is one of the highlights of the racing calendar and was due to be run on December 27.

It was abandoned just before Christmas because of a combination of frost and heavy snow, and will now be run on Saturday January 8.

There was also due to be racing at Chepstow on January 9, but these races will not now take place.

Tony Kelly, Group Managing Director of Northern Racing which owns the Chepstow Racecourse said: "Coral Welsh National Day at Chepstow is always a tremendous occasion; not only is it valued by all in jump racing, it is also a major sporting event in Wales generating widespread racing interest.

"Consequently, it is great news that, thanks to the cooperation of our sponsors, partners, the BHA and the Levy Board, we at Northern Racing have been able to rearrange our fixtures and find a new Saturday date for the race.

"We are naturally delighted that the BBC has stood by its decision to cover the fixture and will televise the day's key races, so that racing fans across the country can enjoy the coverage.

"Everyone involved has worked quickly to make the new arrangements possible, and we are now looking forward to a great day's

racing."