Newbury MP Laura Farris welcomes sports minister to Seven Barrows in Lambourn

NEWBURY MP Laura Farris hosted sports minister Nigel Huddleston during a visit to the Valley of the Racehorse.

Mr Huddleston and Mrs Farris were welcomed by legendary horseracing trainer Nicky Henderson, at his Seven Barrows yard.

Mrs Farris said: "I've been working closely with sports minister Nigel Huddleston since the start of the pandemic on developing a specific support package for racing, which faced unique difficulties given that horses needed to be trained and cared for even when the racecourses were closed."

She added: "It was a pleasure to welcome him to Seven Barrows, home to Lambourn legend Nicky Henderson and meet a number of trainers.

"We discussed the recovery of the sector, staffing issues and animal welfare – and obviously got tips for this year's Grand National!

"Lambourn occupies a special place in our national racing heritage and it's important that the Government hears from them directly about what the industry needs.

During the visit Mr Huddleston noticed a well-thumbed copy of the Newbury Weekly News on Mr Henderson's table.

Our photographer Phil Cannings, who recorded the event for the NWN, said: "I know Nicky Henderson is an avid reader but it was also nice to hear the minister's praise for the diversity and quality of our sports coverage."