A Gloucestershire resident and former jump jockey has scooped the top accolade in the JETS Richard Davis Awards.

Sophia Upton was named the winner of the The Jockey Club Achievement Award, after making a success out of her new career as a starter for the British Horseracing Authority.

From the village of Sherborne, near Northleach, Sophia had 59 winners during almost a decade in the saddle.

She retired in 2004 to start a family and for the past three years, has worked for the BHA after seeking assistance from JETS, a scheme which supports jockeys when they decide to hang up their boots.

The annual awards are organised in memory of Richard Davis, who tragically died in a fall in 1996.

Sophia wins £3,000 for her achievements. Jockey coach Rodi Greene and local business owner John Pritchard, both former jump jockeys, each received £500 as runners-up.

The winner said: “It is a huge privilege to win this award in Richard’s name as I knew him as a jockey.

"After taking time out with family, convincing myself that I was of use and employable again was a huge step and going for first ever interview was a daunting prospect. I feel very proud to have come so far in my second career already.”

George Chaloner, Management Assistant/Trainee Clerk of the Course at Pontefract Racecourse, was named the winner of the IJF Progress Award, while apprentice jockey Faye McManoman took the BHA Current Jockey CPD accolade.

Tips for Sunday's Cheltenham card

1.15 Palmers Hill

1.50 Claimantakinforgan

2.25 Brain Power (NAP)

3.00 Nube Negra (NB)

3.30 Seddon

4.00 Master Debonair

JETS Manager, Lisa Delany, said: “This year’s winners have showed great determination in making a success of their second careers.

"Former jockeys are often praised for their work ethic and dedication by employers and all the achievement finalists along with George Chaloner have faced unique challenges in their second careers which they have dealt with brilliantly.

"I can only congratulate them on their motivation and focus and I am glad JETS has helped all of them to make such a success of their new roles.”