A MEMORIAL service will be held next week for former Taunton Racecourse clerk Mike Trickey, who has died aged 70.

Mr Trickey first became a steward at the racecourse in the 1980s, and became clerk in 1994 after spells at Newton Abbot and Exeter.

Prior to his officiating career, Mr Trickey, who lived in North Molton, Devon, rode in point-to-point races and eventing from the age of 18 until his retirement at 44.

He was known for his great rapport with trainers and jockeys, and during his tenure he helped to establish Taunton Racecourse’s strong reputation.

Chief executive Bob Young said: “His knowledge and experience of horses and racing helped ease many a pressure situation with regards to abandoning or going ahead with a race meeting due to the various challenges experienced by all clerks in the winter.

“Mike will be very sorely missed, and the board and all the staff extend their sympathies to his widow, Clare, and his family.”

A memorial service for Mr Trickey, who died on July 15, will be held at All Saints Church, North Molton, on Wednesday (August 7) at 2.30pm.