CALLOW End owner Jim Lewis collected the Cheltenham Gold Cup from the Queen after Best Mate became the first horse in more than 30 years to secure back to back wins.

The 13-8 favourite won yesterday's race by ten lengths from the 33-1 shot Truckers Tavern with Harbour Pilot (40-1) running in third.

The eight-year-old is the first horse since L'Escargot in 1971 to win one of racing's top trophies two years in a row. He joins a select band of double winners, which include the great Arkle, Cottage Rake, Golden Miller and Easter Hero.

Best Mate, ridden by Jim Culloty, took control at the third from last and never look in danger as he claimed the £203,000 first prize.

Mr Lewis, 67, a noted Aston Villa fanatic, is the first owner since Kinnersley-based Fred Rimmell to bring the trophy to Worcestershire. Rimmell had two Gold Cup success and four Grand National wins between 1956 and 1976.

He can also claim the distinction of receiving the coveted trophy from the Queen, making her first visit to the meet in half a century.

Interviewed afterwards, a delighted Mr Lewis said: "I've got a heartbeat going so fast I could beat eggs! History has been made and I cannot believe it."

He paid tribute to his trainer Henrietta Knight, who he described as a "weaver of dreams".

The highly fancied Irish challenger Beef or Salmon was one of the fallers, going at the third after being held up at the back.

Despite the margin of victory, Jim Culloty said: "He is a better horse than last year but he didn't settle as well as he can. It was a more difficult race than last year."