Sandown Park has been named as one of the top 10 racecourses in the country for the second year running.

The course in Portsmouth Road, Esher, was judged for visitor attraction and customer experience by national tourist board VisitEngland, as part of the quality assured racecourse scheme.

Racecourses across England and Wales were independently assessed and marked on all aspects of the customer experience including website and phone contact checks.

The scheme, which is in its fourth year, offers racecourses individual debriefs and written reports on areas that work well and where improvements could be made.

The Racecourse Association (RCA) racecourse services director Caroline Davies said: “The fact that both large and small racecourses have made the top ten is testament to the fact that all racecourses can offer an excellent customer experience.

“Providing a first class customer experience is very important to racecourses, as highlighted by the RCA showcase and awards.

“The detailed assessment and feedback from VisitEngland has been invaluable in allowing racecourses to improve in these areas.”

Janet Uttley, head of industry engagement at VisitEngland said: “Assessors working with the racecourses have seen significant improvements to the way in which Britain’s second biggest spectator sport delivers excellent standards of customer service and high-quality racing to seasoned race-goers and newcomers alike.”