Newmarket applies to become 'Royal Newmarket'

A Suffolk town famed for being the "home of horse racing" is hoping to add "Royal" to its name.

Councillors in Newmarket voted unanimously on Monday to apply for patronage, giving the town the official title of Royal Newmarket.

Warwick Hirst, portfolio holder for leisure, said the town's 400-year-old association with horse racing and the Royal Family provided a strong case.

"The town has strong royal connections," Mr Hirst said.

According to the Jockey Club, King James I recognised heathland in the town as being ideal for horses, in 1605.

Charles II visited the town regularly from 1660 and rode on two of the courses that are still used, and the Queen continues to attend events.

Wootton Bassett in Wiltshire became the first town in more than 100 years to be given the royal title in 2011, joining Royal Leamington Spa and Royal Tunbridge Wells.

Mr Hirst said: "We're optimistic, but there are only three others so perhaps it's very difficult."

An application letter and accompanying 80-page book detailing the town's connection to the Royal Family has been sent to the Cabinet Office.

It is the reigning monarch who decides to bestow the honour.