Out and About - Winter 2021

C hampion jockey Joe Mercer died aged 86 earlier this year. He retired as a jockey in November 1985 and then spent 19 years as a racing manager to Maktoum Al Maktoum’s Gainborough Stud. He was born in Bradford in 1934 and was 15 when he rode his first winner at Bath in 1950. He was apprentice champion in 1953, the first season in which he was a retained jockey to Jack Colling, who trained at West Ilsley. He was subsequently stable jockey to Dick Hern and then Henry Cecil. During his career, Mercer claimed nearly 3,000 domestic victories and his most successful ride was Brigadier Gerard , winner of 17 of his 18 races between 1970 and 1972. He was champion jockey in 1979. Mercer was a familiar figure locally and ran a farm at Cold Ash. Now his widow Anne Mercer is in the process of downsizing and while the family are keeping most of

the more important pieces of memorabilia from Mercer’s long career, she says certain pieces will not suit her new and smaller house so it is time to offer them to horseracing fans. What is included in the auction will be silver and silver plated trophies and awards, along with cut glass trophies including two impressive Waterford Crystal covered bowls. We will also be offering paintings and other memorabilia. A dedicated section in our early February sale will be devoted to the pieces and here are a few items to whet your appetite. Contact SAS for more details and there will be a preview on the website soon. n To speak to someone at SAS about your antiques and collectables either book Road, Newbury or organise a video valuation by Facetime, WhatsApp or Zoom. Please call 01635 580595 or email: mail@specialauctionservices. com an appointment at their premises off Hambridge

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O&A WINTER 2021