IT WAS one of the proudest moments of Denys Smith's racing career when Red Alligator romped to victory in the 1968 Grand National.

The trainer, jockey Brian Fletcher and the horse's owner Jack Manners were heroes overnight and in the town of Bishop Auckland, their story is now legendary.

But Mr Smith, 78, who retired from racing last year, returned to his home in the town with his wife Jean after a party at the weekend to find their home ransacked and his most prized memento - the Grand National trophy - gone.

The break-in marred an evening of celebrations after friends, family and loyal workers gathered in his honour for a retirement party at the Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield.

The party had been organised by Mr Smith's staff, who wanted to round off his long and successful career with a fitting send-off.

He said: "We got home at about 1.30am and the house was upside down. They had really made a mess.

"They stole some cash and my wife's jewellery, but they took my Grand National trophy, which is what means the most.

"The police have told me that the thieves will not be able to pass it on because it has my name on it and everything.

"They said when they realise this, it will probably get chucked away.

"It was a very valuable trophy and it was very valuable to me."

The theft is bound to anger local people and members of the racing world.

Mr Smith has worked with some of the biggest names in racing, including champion jockeys Lester Piggott and Willie Carson.

Mr Smith said he has resigned himself to the fact that the trophy will probably never be returned.

He said: "Can you really see them handing it back? I think it will end up in a dustbin somewhere."

Mrs Smith's jewellery case also contained precious mementos and gifts given to her over the years by jockeys and trainers when the couple's horses crossed the victory post.

She said: "That trophy is the pride of a lifetime's work.''

Last night, Bishop Auckland police said they were doing everything possible to try to catch the thieves.

Detective Constable Warren Hawes said: "We are following all the usual lines of inquiries, but we would like to hear from anyone who may know the whereabouts of the trophy or give us any information that may lead to its recovery. It is very sad. This is a piece of racing heritage that may never be recovered."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Det Con Hawes at Bishop Auckland police station on (01388) 603566.

Aintree legend's place in history

RED Alligator became a legend in his home town of Bishop Auckland the day he romped home to victory in the 1968 Grand National.

Four days after the race, about 2,000 wellwishers gathered in the street to greet him and jockey Brian Fletcher as they returned to the stables that Denys Smith owned near South Church.

Five years after the big event the horse was the star guest at the opening of a pub in South Church, which was named the Red Alligator in his honour.

Many who are not racing fans know the story of Red Alligator and its Grand National success.

It not only put Bishop Auckland on the map but made heroes of its owner Jack Manners, Mr Fletcher and, of course, Denys Smith.