Well behaved punters win over police

PUNTERS were winners with police for their behaviour at the races at Pakenham on Friday.
Police said they were happy with the 2000strong crowd who attended the Christmas meeting at Pakenham Racing Club.
Acting Senior Sergeant Graham Higginbotham said the event was a credit to racing club officials and patrons.
The race meeting is a popular event with several local businesses and organisations making it the venue for their endofyear celebrations.
Local hotels closed early to ensure festive spirits did not turn sour later in the evening.
Acting Sen Sgt Higginbotham said a strong police presence was maintained at the races but the crowd was well behaved.
Pakenham Racing Club assistant racing manager Michelle Tones said the club was pleased with the event.
She said the crowd was about 500 up on last year with corporate marquees showing similar improvement.
“It was a great day weatherwise and just a really pleasing day overall,” she said.