IN other racing news, the line-up has just been announced for this summer’s Macmillan Charity Day at York Racecourse, with 12 aspiring amateur riders signing up for the challenge of racing a thoroughbred horse in front of thousands of cheering onlookers.

The youngest will be 19-year-old Emily Easterby, daughter of Malton trainer Tim Easterby, who tells us she can’t wait to take on the challenge. Then there is Leanne Humphries, stepping forward in memory of her sister, Paula, who died of ovarian cancer aged 33.

All the riders will have their reasons for taking part, but surely the overriding one is to beat last year’s amazing grand total of £90,000.

The race is sure to be the experience of a lifetime and while there can only be one winner, simply taking part will be an experience to dine out on for years to come. So too will be the knowledge of helping a really worthwhile cause.