Life of popular amateur rider Lorna Brooke to be celebrated at Ludlow on Monday

A celebration of the life of Lorna Brooke will take place at Ludlow on Monday, where family, friends and colleagues of the talented amateur rider have been invited by her parents Sir Alistair and Lady Susan Brooke to join them at the track.

Brooke, who rode 17 winners under rules in Britain and Ireland from more than 400 rides, as well as 40 winners in the point-to-point field, died last month following a fall at Taunton. She was 37.

Closely affiliated with the Shropshire course, situated just 30 miles from the family's base in the Welsh borders, Brooke rode more times and more winners at Ludlow than any other racecourse, enjoying six victories from 122 rides at the track.

Ludlow: Lorna Brooke's most successful track as a riderCredit: Edward Whitaker

Simon Sherwood, clerk of the course at Ludlow, said: "Sir Alistair was very mindful that Ludlow was Lorna's favourite track and she was part and parcel of the scene here on most racedays, so the family wanted to soak up the atmosphere of a raceday and celebrate her life.

"There are about 150 people and we've allocated an area where Sir Alistair, Lady Susan and family will be. Those who have had to pre-book and pre-register will be able to go and pay their respects and have a little bit of a get-together.

"Lorna was always smiling and always prepared to help where required. She rode whatever was put in front of her, always gave it a ride and always came back with a smile on her face. She had a special gift on that front and will be much missed."

In memory of Brooke, the Amateur Jockeys Association of Great Britain will sponsor the 2m5½f handicap hurdle for amateur riders named in her honour, which is the seventh of eight races (4.20) on the card.

Including members, the course is looking forward to welcoming a crowd of 900 on Monday following the easing of Covid-19 restrictions in Britain last week.

Read more:

'It's lovely to do this for her' - Lorna Brooke remembered on hunter chase night

'Our hearts are broken in the amateur ranks' - colleagues remember Lorna Brooke

Remember her joy but be reminded of the dangers as we mourn Lorna Brooke

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