Race named in honour of Best Mate

Best Mate died at Exeter racecourse last November

Champion National Hunt racehorse Best Mate is to have a race named after him at Exeter Racecourse, where he died last November.

The Best Mate Beginners' Steeple Chase, to be run on Tuesday, has been named after the winner of three Cheltenham Festival Gold Cups.

Best Mate began his steeple chasing career at Exeter in 2000.

Exeter's managing director, Geoffrey Billson, said: "We are very proud to name this race after Best Mate."

"He meant so much to so many people," he said.

"He won the race six years ago and it would be wonderful to think this year's winner could follow in his footsteps."