Redknapp and Ferguson celebrate Cheltenham winners

Former Premier League managers Harry Redknapp and Alex Ferguson each enjoyed a winning day at Cheltenham with the latter celebrating a memorable double success as a co-owner.

Ex-Manchester United boss Ferguson, 82, watched on as Monmiral's famous victory as a 25/1 outsider, ridden by Harry Cobden, was followed 40 minutes later by Protektorat's win in the Ryanair Chase.

But the Scotsman was denied a third triumph with Il Ridoto in the Plate Handicap Chase by Redknapp as the Englishman's horse Shakem Up'Arry stormed to victory.

Redknapp, 77, told ITV: "Oh my God, get in there! How good was that? He jumped for fun. What a performance.

"My nan got me into racing, she was a bookie's runner back in the day. She'd get locked up in Poplar Police Station in the East End of London, because it was illegal in those days.

"I love the horses, I love the festival, I love the people. It means so much."

Shakem Up'Arry's trainer Ben Pauling added: "This week we came with some good chances. It meant a lot for Harry who has been a supporter for a long time. I know this means the world to him."

Ferguson was in an equally jubilant mood following his two victories, likening them to lifting the Champions League trophy — which he did twice as manager of United.

He said: "I've been waiting 20 years for a winner and now I've had two in about 40 minutes.

"It's incredible. Is winning the Champions League or Cheltenham a better feeling? This is much better — now."