NEWBURY has come up with an innovative way for jockeys to prepare for racing by providing them with a mechanical horse. On February 9th the jockeys' changing room will be furnished with the "Ride Away," a device which will give riders the chance to get cold muscles into shape for the first race.

The mechanical horse, designed by freelance jockey Richard Perham, also allows riders to improve their style and whip handling.

Jockey Club chief medical officer Dr Michael Turner said: "All other athletes warm up and it does seem strange that we haven't seen a mechanical horse at a racecourse before.

"I've often heard jockeys say that they're just getting warmed up by the second race - hopefully this will be a thing of the past. I think it will a great benefit to the amateurs who might have anything up to four weeks between rides."

Youngsters will be able to try out the mechanical horse for themselves on Tote Gold Trophy day (February 10th), when they will be given professional advice from one of the jockeys in action that afternoon.