HUNDREDS of racing fans were given a rare glimpse behind the scenes at a leading North-East stables at the weekend, including the chance to meet some of the sport's biggest names.

Legendary racehorse Desert Orchid, now retired, was the guest of honour when former Grand National-winning jockey Richard Guest held an open day at his stables in Brancepeth, near Durham City.

The day at Brancepeth Manor Stables kicked off with a trip to the gallops, where visitors were able to see horses at work.

This was followed by a parade led by Mr Guest on locally-trained Red Marauder, which he rode to win the world's greatest steeplechase, the Grand National, in 2001.

Other horses on the parade were last year's Newcastle Eider Chase winner Tynandthyneagain and Cheltenham winner Our Armageddon.

The event also included the launch of the Richard Guest Racing Club and all visitors were given free membership.

They will receive information about the stable and when the club horses run they will be entered in a draw for owner and trainer badges for race days.

Stables racing secretary Joanna Imray said: "It was a fantastic day with gorgeous weather.

"Everybody was very enthusiastic. Visitors were able to see the horses working out on the gallops and they were given maps of the stables and fields to walk around and were able to see the horses they follow."

Proceeds from the event will go to the Thoroughbred Rehabilitation Centre, the charity run by Carrie Humble for the welfare, care and rehabilitation of racehorses.