THIS 'spooky' abandoned racecourse bought for £25million lies derelict and rotting in these haunting photos.
Heartbroken fans have been mourning the loss of iconic Folkestone racecourse near Kent.
It is more than ten years since Quartz Du Montceau won the final ever race at the popular 1m3f oval circuit.
As recently as six months ago the roadsigns guiding motorists on the M20 to the track were still standing – just like the famous grandstand.
Mind you, it's a miracle it still is given this Racing Post report said it had started to become a health hazard when racing still took place there.
Now, orange safety barriers sit in front of tall railings at the foot of steps that used to be lined with punters.
The grass in front appears to be quite well maintained but elsewhere is wild and unkempt.
The Victorian Bar and Grill that would have welcomed owners, trainers and fans has weeds growing out the front and is protected by more railings.
Once pristine and cared for, the parade ring now looks a sad imitation of what it used to be without the care and attention of racecourse staff.
RaceTech camera operator Fergus Waddell took the photos and posted them online.
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The images drew a load of comments from fans who remembered the track in its glory days.
Among them was ITV Racing commentator Richard Hoiles, who said he was 'so sad' seeing what had happened to the once-famous course.
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Another punter wrote: "Spooky pictures. Nothing sadder to my eyes than a disused racecourse.
"Seems almost criminal to me that it is still just sat there, empty and neglected."
While another comment read: "Must be spooky walking around a dead course.
"Thinking of the bookies and punters that are no longer with us shouting out prices in an empty ring, and the hopeful chats early before the first race."
Folkestone racecourse opened in 1898 and at its peak hosted more than 20 meetings a year.
The Queen Mother visited in November 1964 and jumps and Flat racing took place there, with Frankie Dettori and AP McCoy both competing.
Arena Racing Company owned the site and there were plans to build 800 homes next to the track in the hope of financing a new racecourse.
But the scheme was rejected and the course closed for good in December 2012.
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The land was actually sold to the local council for £25million a few years ago and a planning application for 8,500 homes to be put on the site was submitted last year.
It is believed the first phase of the 30-year development is now under way and the first home will be up for sale on September 1, 2025.
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