A POET from Sherston was tasked with capturing the magic of Newmarket for the track’s 350-year celebration.

Dubbed ‘the racing poet’, Henry Birtles was asked to write a poem for a celebratory event held at the renowned racing track on the first day of the QIPCO Guineas Festiva on April 30.

The celebrations kicked-off with a Spitfire flypast, choir, and an address by the mayor of Newmarket.

Attention then turned to the parade ring where Mr Birtles recited his new poem named simply ‘Newmarket’.

Channel 4 Racing opened their race day coverage with the poem being read over a video montage.

Mr Birtles was thrilled to be given the opportunity to take part in the momentous day for the track.

He said: “As a diehard fan of the turf, to be asked to write a poem marking the 350th anniversary of racing at Newmarket by The Jockey Club was both a challenge and a huge honour.

“The challenge was to condense 350 years of history into two minutes and a few lines.

“The honour speaks for itself. I hope I got it right.”

Mr Birtles has previously been commissioned to write poetry that has been read at Westminster Abbey by Damien Lewis as part of the Harvest Festival celebrations.

Other notable commissions include from Shane Warne and Elizabeth Hurley for their charity fundraising lunch to celebrate the start of the 2013 Ashes Series, and The Queen at Buckingham Palace at a reception of contemporary poetry.