REDCAR Racecourse is to celebrate the life of Edward Hide by naming a race in his honour at the next meeting.

Eddie, who passed away earlier this month, aged 86, will be remembered fondly by many Redcar racegoers as a course specialist.

Cock of the North 16 times, his 193 Redcar victories included three Zetland Gold Cups on Henry VII (1962), Move Off (1977), and Say Primula (1987).

He also won six English classics, including the 1973 Epsom Derby on Morston.

On September 19 - the first meeting since he died - the card will feature the Celebrating The Life of Edward Hide Restricted Novice Stakes as the second race on the card.

Eddie’s son, Will, said: “Dad always had great affection for Redcar and he would have been deeply touched to have a race named after him at a course where he rode so many winners and enjoyed such great support. The family are very grateful for Redcar’s thoughtfulness at this sad time.”

Amy Fair, Redcar’s general manager, said: “Edward Hide will be remembered as one of the greatest jockeys in Redcar’s history, so we felt it was important to take the earliest opportunity to celebrate his remarkable life in the most appropriate way.

“Sadly, Eddie’s family can’t be with us on September 19, but we look forward to hosting them as guests of honour at a meeting soon.”