THREE people from Ryedale are among the 11 who will race thoroughbred horses on York Racecourse as part of this year’s Ride of their Lives.

Jill Boak, 43, of Malton, Jeremy Corkell, 53, of Sinnington, and Bertie Hayton, 24, of Nunnington, will undertake six months of intense jockey training before racing in front of 25,000 people on Macmillan Charity Raceday on Saturday, June 16.

All riders have each pledged to raise at least £3,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Alexandra Schimmel, senior supporter events manager at Macmillan Cancer Support, said: “Ride of their Lives really is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and we wish these amazing supporters the very best of luck.

“Their commitment to not only train for six months but also raise thousands of pounds for Macmillan is incredible.

“Every penny they raise will help us continue to provide vital services for people living with cancer, so we’re extremely grateful.”

Last year, the Macmillan Ride of their Lives, sponsored by Best Western Hotels, raised more than £130,000 for Macmillan.

All money raised has helped provide emotional, financial, medical and practical support to the growing number of people

living with cancer across the

UK.

Andrew Denton, director of communications at Best Western Great Britain, said: “We are proud to be sponsoring the race for the third year running, supporting these incredible people doing something amazing for Macmillan.

“We look forward to following and sharing their stories over the next six months as they work towards being on the famous Knavesmire start line on Saturday, June 16.”

Macmillan Charity Raceday has been held annually since 1971, raising more than £7 million in total for Macmillan and other charitable causes.