Royal Ascot tribute to Cecil

Royal Ascot paid its respects to the late Sir Henry Cecil with a minute's silence before the opening race of the five-day meeting.

Cecil, who died last Tuesday, aged 70, following a long struggle with stomach cancer, saddled a record 75 winners at the Royal fixture.

He was honoured at the Berkshire circuit following the Royal pre-racing procession.

The legendary Newmarket handler's yard at Warren Place is now under the stewardship of his wife, Lady Jane Cecil.

Lady Cecil had her first runners as a trainer last Thursday after being issued with a temporary licence by the British Horseracing Authority, quickly getting among the winners.

The Queen's Vase on Friday will be run in honour of Cecil, who was knighted in 2011.

Johnny Weatherby, Her Majesty's Representative at Ascot, said: "Sir Henry was an intrinsic part of Royal Ascot with 75 winners over more than four decades.

"It is no secret that Royal Ascot was his favourite meeting of the year and we felt it was fitting to honour his achievements here, and remember the passing of one the greatest figures that the world of sport has ever seen.

"Our thoughts are with Sir Henry's family and I am delighted that Lady Jane will be accompanying the Countess of Wessex for the trophy presentation following the Queen's Vase."

Champion trainer 10 times and responsible for 25 British Classic winners, Cecil's later years were illuminated by the great Frankel, officially the best horse in the world and unbeaten in 14 starts before retirement at the end of last season.