February, 26 Monday
The Cheltenham Festival is fast approaching; the four-day horse racing event begins on Tuesday the 12th of March and expects to attract more than 72,000 fans per day.
This year’s meet looks to be just as exciting as the last, with previous victors Galopin Des Champs, Shiskin and King George winner Hewick returning.
Although some residents may not appreciate the fuss and chaos in the town centre attracted by the race attendees, some younger residents strike the opportunity to earn some extra money.
Inevitably, the drinking culture surrounding such event is large and this opens serving roles for students and locals who can offer their time and make plenty profit in return.
17-year-old Freya Howells in one of many recruited through an agency and spends race days in the fine dining restaurant, The Jockey Club.
“They usually have the same staff booked into the restaurant because of how it’s so high quality and they want the same people every time.
“Most of them are from Birmingham, they all come down in buses from Edgbaston, there aren’t many locals who work in the restaurant.
“Everyone’s the same age really, apart from the managers who are a bit older, they’re also local.”
Serving may sound like a breeze to some but when it comes to working in The Jockey Club, there’s a lot more to it, reflecting the prices spent by customers.
“You have to pour over the left shoulder, you have to serve the ladies first, you have to serve the host before that even if they’re not a lady, and then you can serve the men.”
The Jockey Club is the ultimate viewing area which mostly seats wealthy businessmen, with screens at their table, commentary playing and not to forget the amazing view through the windows of the panoramic restaurant.
“After the guests are seated, we have a jockey come in and he explains who you should bet on, who he thinks the favourites are, and he explains the ground conditions.
“When they win loads of money it does get crazy; if someone wins on a race you’ll know because their table will order like fifty Guinness.
“I had to carry 12 glasses of Guinness over one time.”
In order to control the level of service and be sure all employees are following the etiquette expected, the restaurant hires a mystery guest, and their role is to report back at the end of the day.
This will ensure all staff will perform to their best, not letting guests pour their own wine, remembering all nine courses and respecting the orders given by managers on how they go about treating customers.
Despite being a tedious role the opportunity offers the chance to learn and experience for young people whilst also earning themselves decent pay at the end of the day.
Many students benefit with agencies eager to recruit and with the broad crowd attracted, but most are advised to travel home if they’re not working in order to avoid the masses.
To watch the action, head over to ITV with coverage of the main races on free to air. Proceedings will kick-off Champion Day.
