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Scare Hampers Start Of Tralee Festival

Tralee's five-day festival got off to a belated start after a bomb scare caused the first race to be delayed by almost 45 minutes.

With day one only getting the go-ahead after passing an early-morning inspection, racegoers at the County Kerry track were evacuated until security officials were satisfied nobody was in danger.

A statement from Tralee read: 'Tralee racecourse received a phone call at 14.40, as the horses were going down to the start for the first race, stating that a bomb had been placed on the premises.

'The Gardai were immediately notified and a decision was taken to evacuate the enclosures in the interest of everybody's safety.

'The horses were recalled from the start and a thorough search of the premises was carried out by Gardai, racecourse security and racecourse management.

'When the all-clear was given, patrons were allowed back into the enclosures and racing continued at 15.28.

'We would like to thank all present for their co-operation and the matter is now in the hands of the Gardai.'

(C) PA Sport