Best Mate, winner of the Gold Cup at Cheltenham in 2002, 2003 and 2004, will be honoured with a life size bronze at Cheltenham race course (the bronze will be a replica of the one which has been completed for the Village Green at Lockinge). Renowned equine sculptor Philip Blacker has been approached to complete the project.

In addition to the bronze the champion hurdler will also have his ashes buried behind the winning post at the course. Best Mate died after collapsing at Exeter - the same day Makybe Diva won her third Melbourne Cup.

Speaking with European Bloodstock News Jim Lewis, the owner of Best Mate, said “Best Mate became the ‘people’s champion.’ They loved him and he loved them. He will be at rest, at the scene of his greatest triumphs.”

Edward Gillespie, Managing Director of Cheltenham Racecourse added: “One cannot overstate the contribution Best Mate has made to the wellbeing of our sport and, as the highest achieving champion since Arkle, he will continue to witness the race he made his own.”