Racegoers drink up to Lockinge challenge

Richard Hannon's stable stars head for Newbury - along with casks of the frothy stuff!

DRINKING and riding can safely go together at Newbury Racecourse on Saturday when Real Ale drinkers can raise a glass to the winner of the Lockinge Stakes.

Eleven horses are confirmed entries in the Group 1 race, including current market leader Canford Cliffs and stablemate Dick Turpin, currently second in the betting for Saturday's race.

At Richard Hannon's stables on Monday morning, Canford Cliffs and Dick Turpin were put through a routine canter at the yard of the Champion Flat trainer ahead of Saturday's £175,000 race.

“Both Canford Cliffs and Dick Turpin are very likely runners for Saturday,” said Hannon. “Canford has obviously not raced this season but he has done very well from a three to four year old, he has had a couple of racecourse gallops and has done plenty of work in preparation and we feel is fit enough.

“Dick Turpin has had the benefit of a run, making an impressive winning start this term at Sandown and is very well in himself at home. We are very happy with the both of them,” he added.

Triple Group 1 winner Twice Over, trained by Henry Cecil as well as the Aidan O'Brien Jan Vermeer, a Group 1 winner in France also remain as entries for Saturday's race.

And beer lovers are in for a treat when the Racecourse stages its first Best of British Beer Festival in association with West Berkshire Brewery.

More than 50 beers and ciders will be available from 13 UK breweries with fish and chips, British bangers and home-made pies on the menu.

The MG Club display will add a further British twist, giving motor fans the chance to get up close and personal with a vintage classic from the world of motoring.

Tickets for Saturday start from £15 with under 18s admitted free.