When Armishaws Removals of Wincanton. Somerset decided to sponsor the 2:15 at Wincanton Races on Boxing Day, the company could hardly have foreseen the result.

When the five runners and riders lined up for what was billed The Armishaws Removals Harry Dufosee Novices’ Steeple Chase over 2.5 miles, the Armishaws team noticed one of the owners to be rather well known.

Close Touch, a six-year-old ridden by David Bass and trained by Nicky Henderson was listed as being owned by The Queen.  Despite not being the favourite, Close Touch performed well and won the race for its illustrious owner.

Shortly after the meeting, Armishaws received a letter from the royal stable thanking the company for its sponsorship.

Photo: Close Touch at Wincanton.