HAVE you ever dreamed of owning a racehorse but thought you couldn't afford to join the rich and famous?

The Northern Echo is offering a cost-effective opportunity to get involved in the Sport of Kings.

Shares are available in a bay filly called Local Heroes.

The offer is open to individuals but is also ideal for local sporting clubs to have a share in their own racehorse, with the costs divided between members.

Local Heroes will be trained by Michael Dods at Denton Hall, near Darlington, and regular visits to see her in training will be part of the deal.

There are 20 shares available on a first-come, first-served basis. The costs are:

a) £250 covering the purchase of a five per cent share in the horse plus insurance and all training fees up to the end of February.

b) £65 per month from March to November inclusive to pay for training fees and racing expenses as well as administration costs.

Any funds not used during the year will be returned to the partners at the end of the season, with any prize money.

At the end of the season, partners will have the choice to either sell their share or continue for a further year.

If the horse could not run because of injury, immaturity or ability, Michael Dods will provide an older horse on a free lease basis to run in the name of The Northern Echo Partnership.

* Anyone interested is invited to an open morning at Michael Dod's stables at Denton, near Piercebridge, at 10am on Sunday. For further details contact Paul Clarkson (01995 605790 or 07802 764094).