WHEN Judith Sherwood was trying to think what to buy her husband Mick for his 50th birthday, she was initially stuck for ideas.

But then she came up with a winner.

For Mick is a horse racing fanatic... and it was a racing certainty that her idea would be a big success.

Judith and her family decided to sponsor a race at Haydock Park in his name.

And the Mick Sherwood 50th Birthday Handicap was listed in national newspapers, on the television and got a mention on the radio, too.

The two-mile race was the fifth race on the card at Haydock Park last Saturday evening and the birthday boy was there taking pride of place, accompanied by 20 of his friends and family.

Mick was aware that he was being taken to the races for his birthday, but only on the big day itself did he discover that a race was carrying his name.

He said: "It was a wonderful surprise. My step-daughter brought the newspaper up to me on my birthday and, as the family knew I would do, I turned to the racing pages first.

"I couldn't believe it when I saw my name. At first I thought it was a joke. It took hours to sink in that it was true. It's a bit better than a party with a karaoke!"

A mini-bus set off from the family home, in Westleigh Road, Leigh, to Haydock where they all enjoyed a meal in a private box before the racing.

Mick, who owns a specialist welding business, said: "We all had a great time and my wife decided to bet on every horse in our race. She put a total of £40 on and, of course, got first, second and third - but only got £33 back!"

The fun was not over when the horses crossed the finish line.

Mick presented the prizes to those connected with the winning horse, Quedex, whose jockey, Liam Treadwell, was riding his first winner at Haydock.

Mick's family bought the prizes as well as sponsoring the race - and also provided a prize for the best turned-out horse, which went to Euippe and its stable boy.

Judith, whose family live in Farnworth, said: "The day cost a fortune, but was well worth it. People have been saying what a good idea it was - most didn't know you could sponsor a race. The staff at Haydock were really helpful and made it a day to remember."