HORSE racing is second only to soccer when it comes to revenue and attendance - which is good news for Worcester Racecourse and its business backers.

A review entitled Jump Racing Focus highlights the significant and growing business impact of jump racing and the benefits its sponsors and investors get.

According to recent research, racing's capital expenditure over the past four years amounted to £420m, with a further £300m of investment planned to happen by 2011.

Much of this expenditure has gone into new and improved facilities at racecourses across the country, which in turn have offered racing enthusiasts a more enjoyable experience, enabled the expansion of the racing calendar and increased sponsorship opportunities.

Consequently, sponsorship revenues increased to more than £23m in 2005 and jump racing in particular has seen attendances rise by nearly 42 per cent between 2001 and 2005.

Analysis shows that three-quarters of all races are sponsored and 92 per cent of sponsored races are shown on terrestrial TV, adding to brand awareness.

Martin Broughton, chairman of the British Horseracing Board, said: "Jump racing has become a significant sporting and commercial success in recent years.

"Investment is the lifeblood which the sport depends upon in order to grow and develop. Without it, we would not see the great progression that makes the sport so successful and enjoyable to all."