Gentleman George is last of our great American benefactors

George Strawbridge, whose Journey was so impressive at Ascot on Saturday, is the last in an illustrious line of patrician Americans who have been unwavering supporters of British racing since before World War II.

The first name on that roll of honour was the colourful Ambrose Clark (1880-1964) who was buried next to his beloved 1933 Grand National winner Kellsboro Jack. 'Brose' sold the horse to his wife for £1 just before he won the National.

Another major player was Jock Whitney, US ambassador to Britain and owner of numerous classy winners trained by Jeremy Tree at Beckhampton, but it was his contemporary Paul Mellon, owner of Mill Reef, who left the most indelible mark on the British racing landscape.