THE seven-race Bell and Plate Day at Carlisle racecourse yesterday saw 'the world's oldest sporting trophy' up for grabs.

The Carlisle Bell, the feature race of the day, was first contested in 1599, according to the race organisers, with the two bells given out as a prize dating even further back, to 1559.

Hollie Doyle reached another notable milestone as she steered Mostawaa to victory in the £30,000 Stablemate By Agma Carlisle Bell.

News and Star: Hollie Doyle, winner of the Carlisle Bell 2023Hollie Doyle, winner of the Carlisle Bell 2023 (Image: Grossick Racing Photography / Jockey Club)

Fresh from booting home three winners Royal Ascot last week, the record-breaking rider made the long journey north to Cumbria in a bid to secure her first victory at Carlisle – the only British racecourse to currently stage Flat racing where she had not previously enjoyed success.

Ms Doyle said: “It’s great to have a winner here because it’s a good atmosphere and it’s a long way to come!

“I used to come up for the lady riders’ meeting so I’ve had a few rides, but no winner until today.”