Chepstow and Bath to support cancer centre with preview nights

Cheltenham Festival preview nights to be staged at both Chepstow and Bath are to raise money for Cardiff's Velindre Cancer Centre and Racing Welfare following the death last year through bowel cancer of popular racing figure Roger Lewis.

Every penny earned by the Coral-sponsored previews will be divided between the charities, with significant sums likely to be raised.

Paul Nicholls, Richard Johnson and Jeremy Kyle will be present at Chepstow on March 2, with Sir Anthony McCoy and Ruby Walsh joining them via Facetime, while Nicholls, Joe Tizzard and Richard Phillips are booked for Bath on March 8, accompanied by Tom Scudamore on Facetime. Coral's Simon Clare hosts both events.

Lewis's daughter Hannah Walker said: "Roger had a strong association with horseracing and Chepstow – not only did he ride his first winner on the green grass called home, but he also hosted on-course tours and winning connections.

"While undergoing radiotherapy and chemotherapy, horseracing provided much light relief to Roger, and as a family we were able to enjoyable a bucket list outing to the 2016 Cheltenham Festival before his terminal cancer progressed.

"Too many people are confronted with cancer and to able to raise funds for the Velindre Cancer Centre and Racing Welfare – charities that helped us so much during such testing times – would make my father so very proud."

Chepstow tickets can be booked on 01291 622260, while those wanting to go to Bath should call 01225 424609. Both previews cost £25 to attend with food included.