The Arkle Bridle, an authenticated bridle fixed with original reins worn by Arkle in some of his races, the bit inscribed ARKLE 19.4.1957, RETIRED 8.1

The Arkle Bridle, an authenticated bridle fixed with original reins worn by Arkle in some of his races, the bit inscribed ARKLE 19.4.1957, RETIRED 8.10.68, ; sold together with a frame mounted with all the original authentication relating to the sale of the bridle at a charity auction in 1970, including a signed letter of authenticity from T W (Tom) Dreaper on Greenogue headed paper dated 26th November 1970; a related letter from Anthony Fairbairn Secretary of the Racegoers Club, 42 Portman Square; the original purchase cheque made payable to the Arkle Memorial Fund; a press cutting regarding the Arkle Auction; and other items (2) The bridle was bought at a charity auction following a gala performance of the play 'The Jockey Club Stakes' at the Vaudeville Theatre, London, 9th November 1970. The evening was organised by the Racegoers Club as a principal money raiser for the appeal to erect a Doris Lindner-sculpted statue of Arkle at Cheltenham Racecourse, which of course came to fruition. The auction was conducted by the BBC commentator Peter Bromley and three items of Arkle memorabilia were auctioned. This bridle fetched ?150 (although reported as guineas), a silver salver set with one of Arkle's shoes made ?280, whilst Pat Taaffe's riding boots were purchased by the Duchess of Westminster for 100 pounds.