MORE than £8,750 was raised for the Injured Jockeys Fund thanks to a wine and wagyu event co-hosted by a beef provider and wine merchant, both based in Tetbury.

Cotswold Wagyu and Vintopia Wines held the preview event for Cheltenham Festival last month, with the impressive amount of money raised confirming the extraordinary success of the evening.

Held at Chavenage House, the event drew a sell-out 80+ guests who enjoyed a Champagne and canapés reception before top racing trainer Alan King shared tips on the festival to come.

Guests then tucked into a wagyu dinner with wine before a fundraising auction saw guests bidding generously.

The charitable cheque was later presented at the Tetbury farm base of Cotswold Wagyu by owner Mike Tucker and Jeremy Hill of Vinotopia Wines.

Receiving the cheque on behalf of the Injured Jockeys Fund was senior almoner of the charity Chicky Oaksey.

Mike said: “Our thanks go to our auction donors and guests for their great generosity and to Alan King and all involved for their enthusiasm and support.

“We’re delighted that such a significant sum was raised for this excellent cause and thank Chicky for coming to receive the cheque today.”