HEXHAM Racecourse is celebrating its 'freedom' after its X account was blocked for 48 hours.
When the staff of the picturesque grounds noticed problems with the social media account earlier this week, they enlisted the help of Hexham MP Guy Opperman, who helped provide a contact to get in touch with X.
While staff worked hard in the background to appeal against the ban, Lincolnshire National winning trainer Fergal O'Brien started a #freeHexham campaign, which did its rounds on the former Twitter site to get others to join and raise awareness of the situation.
A big thank you to our local MP @GuyOpperman for providing us with a contact for X and @FOBRacing for starting the #FreeHexham campaign, along with everyone else who supported! https://t.co/0ub5rR2eEE
After 48 hours, the account was reactivated, and staff could go back to posting online.
What have we missed? pic.twitter.com/bDmBKZFkg2
— Hexham Racecourse (@HexhamRaces) January 23, 2024
Speaking about the issue, a spokesperson from Hexham Racecourse said: "We noticed on Sunday, January 21, in the evening that the account was blocked.
"We would just like to thank you to Fergal O'Brien Racing for starting the #FreeHexham campaign and everyone who supported it, and Guy Opperman for kindly providing us with a contact at X.
"It was very heart-warming to see the response and support we have received."
Guy Opperman adds: "When the team at the Hexham Racecourse informed me that they had been locked out of their account on X, I simply had to do all I could to help.
"Thankfully, I have a friendly contact at the social media platform, and with a click of a button, Hexham Races were up and running again.
"I am so pleased, because for so many local people in Hexham, the racecourse is at the heart of the community. It is also incredibly special to me as a horse lover and former amateur steeplechase jockey.
"I would urge everyone to have a day at the races when they return in mid March, and support this vital industry."
X has been approached for a comment.
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