The Duchess of Cornwall visited Sandown Park racecourse to meet armed forces and award prizes in a historical race meet.

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Guy Disney: Made a memorable first on the day 

She watched keenly from the Royal Box at the Esher racecourse as soldiers rode in the Royal Artillery Gold Cup. Guy Disney, 32, who came third, made history as the first person to ride over fences with a prosthetic leg in a race in Britain.

Lance Bombardier Jody Sole won riding Cowards Close and was presented the cup by the Duchess. After accepting the trophy he congratulated Captain Disney, who rode in the race twice before losing his right leg from the knee down while in service, on his return to racing.

The Royal Artillery Gold Cup is open to amateur jockeys who must also be past or present members of the armed forces.

Two previous members of the Royal Artillery regiment who come every year to the event are John Bishop, of Canterbury, and Tony Pears, of High Wickham.

Mr Pears, who served from 1963-1969, said: "I’ve been here about four times now and it’s quite a nice event normally. In the past we had the privilege of passing through the town."

The parade, which has been a feature of the day in recent years and serves as a reunion event for past members, did not take place this year as Britain no longer has forces in Afghanistan.

Mr Pears added: "What’s nice is we get to know some of the youngsters."

A grey and rainy day did not dampen spirits as hundreds of spectators cheered on the riders, with the Duchess watching animatedly through binoculars in between presenting prizes in the Winners Circle.