IT'S that time of year again when racing fans begin to look ahead to the new Flat season. And yet again, the Evening Press will be at the hub of the action - in more ways than one.

That's right, the racehorse called Evening Press will be back on the track soon and, what's more, the chance has again arisen for readers to get involved in the action from the high-brow position of part-owner.

But be warned - you must act quickly.

Last year, two-year-old Evening Press - the racehorse named after the award-winning newspaper - enjoyed her debut season on the track, running in three races towards the end of the term.

This year, she will be back and promises to be bigger, faster and stronger than ever as she bids for glory. And unlike last year, when her young age prevented her from getting on the track until the late summer, this year she is being groomed for action from the spring onwards.

And once again, the Evening Press is offering readers the chance to buy into her potential success and enjoy the privileges that go with part-owning a racehorse.

A total of 20 shareholders, or syndicates, were involved in the Evening Press Racing Partnership last season and the good thing for those who weren't is that a few shares have been made available for this season.

The Partnership leases the bay filly off Ryedale trainer Tim Etherington for a certain monthly fee and in return effectively becomes the owner for the year.

And as such, shareholders can tap into the benefits.

As part-owners they can get free admission to race meetings with owner badges and will, of course, receive their share of the winnings should Evening Press prosper on the track.

They can cast their eye over Etherington's top-grade stables at Wold House, Norton, and see their horse put through her paces on the neigbouring gallops.

Like last year, the Evening Press will keep readers informed of our namesake's progress, but shareholders will also be privy to an exclusive hotline with all the latest news and views about the racehorse.

All you have to do to join in the fun is become a member of the Evening Press Racing Partnership.

Shares are being offered on a 'free lease' agreement. This means shareholders are given a free share in Evening Press and pay for the training fees and racing expenses and, in return, receive their share of prize-money won, together with any other income received such as appearance money and sponsorship fees, plus whatever is left over in the kitty.

The lease covers the 2002 season with an option to continue for 2003.

It is possible for a group of people to own one share so office workers, pub regulars and club members could form their own syndicate to purchase a stake in Evening Press.

A five per cent share will cost £65 per month (£15 a week), which will be used to pay all the bills. The first payments are due this month and the final payment will be in October.

At the end of the season funds not used, plus any prize money won, will be distributed to the partners in the form of a dividend.

The partnership is run by racing promoter Paul Clarkson, who also runs successful partnerships with other regional newspapers.

If you would like to receive full details, or if you would like to go and see the horse before making a decision then give Paul a ring on 01995 605790 or fax him on 01995 606830.

You can also write to him at Paul Clarkson Sporting Promotions, The Paddocks, Strickens Lane, Barnacre, Garstang, Lancashire PR3 1UD.

Updated: 14:13 Tuesday, February 12, 2002