RISING star Charles Bishop is hoping a new sponsorship deal can see him roar to more success, writes Mark Edwards.

The jockey, attached to Mick Channon's yard in West Ilsley, has struck up a partnership with the George & Dragon pub in Upton, near Didcot.

When landlord Kenneth Shaw discovered Bishop was looking for support, he was only too happy to step into the breach – and sponsor his breeches.

"It's a real racing pub and Charlie is a lovely lad," Shaw said.

"He came in for a few meals, we got chatting and have become really good friends.

"I was in hospital a while back and he came in to see me. When I found out there was a chance to sponsor him, I jumped at it."

Bishop, who rode in the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket at the end of last month, is delighted to receive the backing, and is hoping for plenty of success to give the pub more exposure.

"I had 43 winners last season and so would be hoping to try and get around the 50-mark this time round," he said.

"I came to the pub with a few of the other lads from the yard because the food is very good and it's a racing place. I got to know Ken well."

He added: "It's a very competitive sport and any support is valuable.

"We get up very early every morning and just strive to ride the best horses.

"I am lucky that we have got some very nice ones in the yard, so it would be great if I can have a few good winners.

"If that can happen on a Saturday in front of the TV cameras, that's an added bonus both for me and Ken – because it gets my name out there and gives the pub some publicity too."