A PARTINGTON racing fan landed a prized possession after a day at the races - the racing silks of 19-time champion jockey AP McCoy.

Even though he landed only one winner at Haydock Park at the Valentine's Day meeting, Anthony Henderson reckons bagging the gear worn by the greatest jump jockey of all time is the best return of all.

Anthony, aged 32, went to the meeting with his girlfriend Gemma Wallace, just a week after McCoy had announced he was retiring at the end of the season.

Keen racegoer Anthony was determined to get a memento from the champion jockey - and finally managed to get him to autograph his racing card, and Gemma, 32, captured the moment on film.

Anthony, of Wood Lane, said: "AP McCoy has been the only jockey I have ever really followed. He's the best at what he does.

"I had tried after his races aboard At Fishers Cross and Monbeg Dude to get close but the crowds were too big.

"It was third time lucky though as I made sure I was first on the rail of the parade ring and managed to grab him as he headed back to the weighing room after his race on Aqalim."

After the meeting he wrote to trainer John P Ferguson, including the photo, and asked if he could have the silks - and received delivery of them shortly afterwards.

Anthony, an account specialist, said: "I was thrilled. I sent the letter more in hope than in any real expectation of hearing back.

"I hope to have the signed race card, photo and silks framed and they will take pride of place on display when I have the room to do them justice.

“It doesn't get any better than AP's silks."