Cheltenham Festival in pictures: St Patrick's Day

The penultimate day of Cheltenham Festival marked St Patrick's Day with many racegoers opting for a hint of green to celebrate.

The day saw some unexpected victories, with jockey Harry Cobden aboard Caldwell Potter for trainer Paul Nicholls.

There was also raw emotion with Irish jockey Rachel Blackmore cruising to a win in memory of her cousin, Robert Blackmore.

Overall, the day offered bursts of Irish music and dancing in this, one of the most competitive but exciting weeks of horse racing.

Irish Pride: Many racegoers opted for fancy dress or flashes of green in their garments to make the most of the St Patrick's Day-themed celebrations.

Emotional victories: Rachel Blackmore secured a triumph in the Ryanair Mares' Novices' Hurdle. Her cousin passed away at the weekend and she dedicated the win to him.

A-list racegoers: Actor and presenter Danny Dyer was one of the high-profile visitors watching the racing. Other well-known spectators included Gemma Collins and Peter Crouch.

Smooth sailing: Caldwell Potter jumped well in the Jack Richards Novices' Chase, ridden by Harry Cobden, to make this race the 50th Cheltenham Win for trainer Paul Nicholls. Owner Alex Ferguson was delighted with the victory.

Trackside Thrills: Racegoers cheered during Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle.

Action shot: American Sniper is captured here at the front, ridden by Jack Tudor in the fifth race of the day.

Royal Visit: The Princess Royal made an appearance at the racecourse wearing a bright read overcoat.

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