Local point-to-point followers are thrilled that one of their longest serving members has been honoured with a top award.

Arthur Bellamy, who farms at How Caple, has been named as the national winner of the Cynthia Higgon Award for outstanding services to Point-to-Pointing, from nominations from all over the UK. Arthur, who recently celebrated his 90th birthday has been involved in almost every capacity of organising racing ‘between the flags’ for seven decades, was stunned to hear of the accolade, professing to be ‘chuffed to bits’ at the recognition.

Area Secretary, Liz Morgans, who nominated Arthur for the coveted award, was delighted at his success. “Arthur has happily held just about every position with various point-to-points, steward, judge, course preparer, chairman, you name it, Arthur’s done it! for so many years now, and has never expected any reward, and it’s important that such dedication is recognised by the Point-to-Point Authority. It’s very special too that Ludlow Racecourse, who support the sport so well, have offered that the presentation should be made there on a raceday.”

Arthur, grandfather of NH jockey, Tom, will receive his trophy at the Ludlow meeting on Monday, November 25th, when a race will be named in honour of his achievement.

This is the second occasion that a Herefordshire man has been accorded the prestigious award, Kilpeck man, Dick Pike having been the 2015 recipient for his outstanding services to the sport.