Officials are hoping for big crowds at the two traditional Easter meetings.

The Ashford Valley Tickham Hunt at Charing on Saturday and the East Kent Hunt at Aldington on Monday provide the usual weekend double-header for South East point-to-point enthusiasts. The two courses host six-race cards, both beginning at 2pm.

Charing clerk of course Rob Harrison, who has overseen proceedings there for the past 15 years, said: “It’s a pilgrimage for many people, who come once a year to see people they haven’t seen for a long time.

“We had 7,000 last year, which was up there with the best attendances ever, and we also had good weather.

“This year Easter is two weeks earlier and the forecast isn’t great but while I can look after everything else, I can’t do anything about the weather.

“The course is looking good and everything is ready to go.”

Aldington opposite number Ian Gibson reports: “We have 92 entries across the six races and are hoping for decent weather, going and good racing.”

Local trainer David Phelan enjoyed a good day at Godstone on Sunday sending out Rey Nacarado to win the South East Grand National.

Ridden by Gina Andrews, they held off the challenge from runner-up Hunters Lodge, ridden by South East champion jockey Philip Hall.

It was Rey Nacarado’s second success for Irishman Phelan, who runs Felix Racing with his wife Vicki at their base in Brook.

Punters braved strong winds and heavy rain at the Surrey course but saw five winning favourites.

Admission at Charing is: main car park – cars £20 (single person occupancy £10 each; top of the hill (with panoramic view) £30. Children under-16 free. The price at Aldington is £10, with children free. Sat Nav (Charing) TN27 OJS, (Aldington) TN25 7EJ.