(Image: Supplied)
Ripon Racecourse has appointed its first-ever poet in residence.
Antony Pickthall, a poet and author based in North Yorkshire, will take on the new role as part of a six-month residency funded by Arts Council England.
During his time at the racecourse, Mr Pickthall will write and share poems inspired by the venue, which will be brought to life through augmented reality.
Mr Pickthall said: "The funding will allow me to explore my poetry and celebrate one of the best-loved racecourses in the UK in a different way, hopefully capturing some of what makes Ripon special."
The poems will be shared on Ripon Races’ Facebook channels and later made available around the racecourse through QR codes.
Visitors will be able to scan the codes to watch video performances of the poems.
James Hutchinson, managing director of Ripon Racecourse, said: "Ripon Racecourse has always been about more than just the action on the track.
"We are proud of our heritage, our setting and the stories that make Yorkshire’s Garden Racecourse such a special place.
"Appointing a Poet in Residence gives us an exciting opportunity to celebrate those stories in a fresh and engaging way, while introducing new audiences to both racing and the arts."