Racing stalwarts first past the post at Palace

Norman Gundill, the longstanding boss of Pontefract Racecourse, received his MBE while John Sanderson was presented with the OBE that he was awarded in the New year honours list. His firm manages Wetherby, Catterick, Redcar and Thirsk.

Both men have been involved in Yorkshire racing for more than 40 years and have frequently seen the Queen’s colours carried with distinction at their courses.

With the Duke of Edinburgh still recovering in hospital following recent surgery, hopes are high of a morale-boosting Royal victory in the blue riband Ascot Gold Cup on Thursday when Her Majesty’s Estimate is a leading contender.

Estimate’s victory 12 at the meeting 12 months ago prompted joyous scenes as the Queen dashed to the winner’s enclosure. It was a personal highlight of her Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

The sporting theme continued when Hull’s Olympic gold medal-winning boxer Luke Campbell received his MBE – and hinted at there being Royal support in his corner when he makes his debut as a professional fighter next month.

Campbell, a keen racegoer, tweeted: “It’s been a great morning meeting the Queen and getting a MBE. The Queen is putting July 13th in her diary.”