JEWELLERS Boodles will celebrate 10 years as title sponsor of the Boodles May Festival by adding another flagship race at Chester Racecourse to its roster next month.

The iconic brand, which was founded in Liverpool and opened its second store in Chester in 1965, has extended its commitment to racing at the world’s oldest racecourse by sponsoring the Dee Stakes.

Taking its name from the nearby river, the Dee Stakes is the third and final Classic trial to be run during the Boodles May Festival. It was first established in 1813.

The addition of the Class 1 Listed race to Boodles’ sponsorship portfolio follows that of the prestigious Boodles Chester Vase in 2022, won by Ryan Moore on Changingoftheguard.

Louise Stewart, Chief Executive at Chester Race Company, said: "The Boodles brand has become synonymous with our thrilling May Festival since 2013. I would like to acknowledge the significant commitment that Boodles and the Wainwright family have made during that time, and in the years prior to becoming our title sponsor.

"Their increased involvement in this year’s Boodles May Festival, by sponsoring the Dee Stakes, is fantastic news, as we look forward to an exciting renewal of racing on the Roodee."

Nicholas Wainwright MBE, Chairman of Boodles, said: "Marking the perfect way to celebrate 10 years of title sponsorship, Boodles is delighted to be more involved with the May Festival than ever before this year. The addition of the Boodles Dee Stakes to our expanding horse racing sponsorship portfolio means that we will now proudly associate the name of our fine, jewellery brand with two of Chester’s marquee races.

"The Boodles May Festival is one of the jewels in the Boodles Social Calendar and we can’t wait to be back on course for this year’s thrilling races."

More information on the Boodles May Festival, taking place from the 10 - 12 May, can be found at: https://www.chester-races.com/.