THE death in 2015 of Sir Peter O’Sullevan silenced forever the Voice of Racing, though it did nothing to diminish the deep affection in which he is still held.

Each November, from 1998 until his death, and now continued by his friends, Sir Peter gathered together friends and admirers for a lunch in London, at which he raised funds for a number of charities that he held close to his heart. This coincided with the inception of the Peter O’Sullevan Trust, and central to each year’s celebration is the unveiling of the latest winner of the award of merit. This year’s winner is Nicky Henderson OBE.

All auction proceeds raised on the day go towards equine welfare and those associated with equines, and to date close to £15 million has been donated. This year will see seven choice items go under the hammer on November 30th, at a sold-out lunch which will be attended by 500 people in the Dorchester Hotel. If you are not among the lucky ones to have a ticket, you can still make a contribution, and register pre-event bids for any of the items by contacting the main driving force behind the lunch, the indomitable Nigel Payne.

Lot 1, as always, is the Johnny Jonas painting of the award recipient, quickly followed by Terence Gilbert’s oil on board featuring six of Nicky Henderson’s champions. A third work of art to come under the hammer will be the original of Jonathan Armigel Wade’s painting for the hugely popular Christmas cards which are sold to aid the Trust.

Recently, Queen Camilla unveiled a life-size sculpture of Frankie Dettori at Ascot, the work of Tristram Lewis. One of the nine quarter size bronzes of the piece will be offered for sale.

In addition to VIP packages for four people to the second day of the 2024 Cheltenham Festival and next year’s Derby at Epsom, there will be a once in a lifetime opportunity to get your hands on a rare piece of racing memorabilia. This is one of Sir Peter’s most treasured commentary charts, his last ever Derby commentary for BBC television when he called home the 200th Derby won by Troy. The winning jockey, Willie Carson, has also agreed to sign the unique piece for the purchaser.

To enquire about the lots, to make a bid if desired, or to enquire about obtaining the Trust’s 2023 Christmas cards, email nigel@earthsummit.co.uk