RACING legend Desert Orchid will be a guest of honour at the Arthritis Research Campaign (ARC) summer race meeting, to be held at Stratford Racecourse on Friday, June 28.

The grey will be making several appearances throughout the evening ridden by his original jockey, Colin Brown. Later he will be in the paddock before the principal race, sponsored by Stratford upon Avon-based jewellery firm, George Pragnell Ltd.

Desert Orchid's appearance is being sponsored by chartered surveyors, Darlinson Dyer, of Birmingham.

Desert Orchid has made several appearances every year since his retirement. During his ten-year career, he won 34 races and was placed 23 times out of a total 71 starts.

Now retired, he has his own fan club and his public appearances are highly popular.

The event has been organised by the Stratford upon Avon committee of the Arthritis Research Campaign (ARC) and, will raise funds for ARC's research chair at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham.

The racing highlight will be the principal race, the winner of which will receive the George Pragnell Gold Cup, a highly distinctive antique trophy, and also a share in the race, which is worth £15,000.

Jeremy Pragnell, managing director of George Pragnell, said: "We are very happy to be able to sponsor an event that should be one of the most enjoyable of the summer racing season here in Stratford, and also to be able to support such a worthwhile cause."

The jewellers will also have a shop on site for all those wishing to view their craftsmanship.

Other entertainment includes a Motor Car Village set up by a group of Stratford car dealers, who are also sponsoring a race on the card, as well as the Arrow Valley Brass Band and free family entertainment.

Badges and tickets will be available from 4.30pm - Members £15, Tattersalls tickets £11 and course tickets £5.