Mascots under starters orders for Lanark Silver Bell racenight

The furry line-up will go head-to-head for the ½ furlong flat race as part of the Lanark Silver Bell racenight.

Motherwell FC’s Amber, who finished second last year, is the leading SPFL contender at 5/1 while Ladbrokes have Hamilton Park mascot The Duke firm favourite at 4/6 to retain his crown.

Vivien Kyles, chief executive at Hamilton Park, said: “The Duke has been training hard and is on home-ground so the football mascots will have to be at their best to get their noses in front.

“The Lanark Silver Bell racenight is a really important event for the people of Lanarkshire and we are really looking forward to a top evening of racing and entertainment.”

David Macdonald of Ladbrokes added: “All mascots have been training hard for this annual event, and after last year’s shock result I’m confident that the SPFL mascots will claim the prize from The Duke”.

This is a significant event in the Scottish racing calendar with the highlight of the evening being the historic Ladbrokes Lanark Silver Bell Handicap Stakes (Class 3) and its £26,000 prize pot.

The Lanark Silver Bell, which is believed to be the oldest sporting trophy in existence, dates back to 1165 when it was thought to have been gifted to the people of Lanark by King William ‘The Lion’ of Scotland.

Taking to the stage after the racing will be top Blondie tribute act Dirty Harry.

Gpen at 3pm with the mascots taking to the track at 4.45pm and the first horse race taking place at 5.20pm.

Entry is £22, with under-18s free and under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.