A £5,000 diamond necklace is being offered as an incentive to female jockeys to compete in a challenging horse race at Cartmel.

Lancaster-based luxury watch and jewellery retailer Banks Lyon has announced its sponsorship of the Lady Riders’ Handicap Hurdle Race - known for being one of the most challenging ladies’ events over obstacles.

The race is part of the Cumbria Crystal Cup Day at Cartmel Racecourse on July 18.

With £10,000 prize money at stake, the race is expected to tempt some of the top female riders in the sport.

And now Banks Lyon is offering a further incentive in the form of a £5,000 diamond necklace for the winning jockey. The piece chosen is a diamond drop pendant, set in 18ct white gold and displaying a pair of pear cut diamonds top and tailing five oval cut diamonds.

Managing director of Banks Lyon Jewellers Rodney Banks Lyon said: “We are naturally very pleased to be able to sponsor this race, as it is a fantastic opportunity for female jockeys in a traditionally male-dominated sport, as well as being an excellent draw to the area."

Britain’s leading female jump jockey Lucy Alexander said: “The Cartmel race is always a very competitive event and one I love to win, but this will add an even greater incentive. It is a very generous sponsorship which will enhance the stature of the race.”

Cartmel Racecourse is set in the Holker Estate at the heart of the Lake District, and is renowned for having the longest run-in in the country at four furlongs. Details of the racecourse and their fixtures, including the Cumbria Crystal Cup Day, are available at http://cartmel-racecourse.co.uk/.

For more information about Banks Lyon Jewellers, visit www.bankslyon.co.uk or call 01524 384858.