ONE of the region's racing communities is attempting to rival centres such as Newmarket and Lambourn.

Trainers at Middleham, North Yorkshire, have already netted £3m in grants this year - the first time the Wensleydale stables have boasted such a success.

However, the market town is better known for its links with Richard III and the Middleham Jewel, which was found in a field not far from the ruined castle.

Frustrated with the town's low profile, trainers have banded together to promote its name. Yesterday, their association launched a campaign to put Middleham on the map, with regular briefings for the media adding to the annual Middleham Open Day each Easter.

MP William Hague pledged his support during a speech at the Middleham Key Centre.

"In the wake of foot-and-mouth disease, the rural economy has lost many of its traditional incomes, and that is why it is so important the stables continue to be successful," he said.

"Having so many here means we can replace money lost elsewhere, which means that Middleham is stronger and better-placed when it comes to recovery."

The trainers say they have chosen Middleham as a base because of its central location, easy access to the A1, reasonably priced property and, more recently, gallops and modern equine facilities, part-paid for by a £3m grant from the Government's Rural Challenge Initiative, and part by the Middleham community and the stables.