Uttoxeter is set to play host to the most lucrative race of the summer jumping season - with the winning jockey taking home a cool £75,000.

The Marston's Pedigree Summer Cup has been described by bosses at Uttoxeter Racecourse as "not only a highlight of the horseracing season, but also of the Midlands' sporting calendar".

The Summer Cup will provide the main attraction of an action-packed day of racing. The listed handicap steeplechase is one of seven races punters will enjoy on Sunday, July 2.

An unusual attraction of the day will be appearance of former English professional dart player and the first player to ever win both the British Darts Organisation and World Darts Championships, Dennis 'The Menace' Priestley.

He will be visiting Uttoxeter Racecourse on the day to give all challengers the chance to take him on in a nine-dart challenge all in aid of injured servicemen's charity Help 4 Heroes.

A Uttoxeter Racecourse spokesman said: "In the middle of the schedule, when the 'Uttoxeter roar' will no doubt be at its loudest, comes the most valuable race of the summer season, with a significant £75,000 prize fund that's sure to attract not only the best horses in training at this time of the year, but also many top jockeys.

"Run over the same distance as the Cheltenham Gold Cup - three miles and about two furlongs - this year's Martson's Pedigree Summer Cup over 20 fences will get under starters, as ever, at the entrance to the home straight - with runners racing towards the grandstand from 'the off'."

Although the emphasis will very much be on horse racing on the day, the racecourse will be making a special effort to ensure there is entertainment for visiting families.

The spokesman said: "Under-18s accompanied by adults will be admitted free of charge on the day and young families heading for the centre-course area will find a host of family entertainment.

Anyone taking part will also go in to a prize draw to win tickets for the Marston's Beer Festival Raceday in November.

The horses will come under starter's orders for the first race of the day at 2pm, with the last race of the day scheduled for 5.10pm.

Entrance to this year's Martson's Pedigree Summer Cup starts from just £12, but a range of hospitality packages are also available.

More information and online ticket bookings are available online here

Alternatively, they can be bought by calling 01889 562561 or on the day at the gate.