Hamilton Park Racecourse has revealed that one of the most significant historical families of the local area, the Watson Baronetcy of Earnock, will be honoured annually with a prestigious memorial trophy.

Sir Julian Somerled Watson, 7th Baronet of Earnock, was a shareholder and loyal supporter of Hamilton Park and regularly visited the award-winning racecourse. Following the passing of Sir Julian in May 2016, the Watson Baronetcy sadly became extinct. However, the team at Hamilton Park has been working closely with the Watson estate to ensure a lasting legacy.

Since it was founded in c1895, The Watson Baronetcy of Earnock contributed considerably to the local community. Sir John Watson, 1st Baronet of Earnock, owned several collieries in the area including the Neilsland and Earnock colliery on the Neilsland Estate which covered over 2,000 acres. The Watson family also gifted the elaborate Watson Fountain to the town of Hamilton, which still stands proudly at the triangular merging of Cadzow Street and Muir Street.

Vivien Currie, Chief Executive at Hamilton Park Racecourse, said “We are incredibly honoured to be trusted with continuing the legacy of the Watson Baronetcy of Earnock. Sir Julian was a valued supporter of Hamilton Park and the Baronetcy is an integral part of the local history.

“We will be proudly unveiling the trophy at our Almada Raceday on Tuesday 2 July and it will be a highlight of our racing calendar every year.”

World-renowned silversmiths, Hamilton & Inches of Edinburgh, are creating ‘The Watson Memorial Cup’ which will pay tribute to the Watson Baronetcy and Sir Julian’s love of racing through special hand-engravings. In 2012, the racecourse also trusted the leading silversmiths with the creation of the Ladbrokes Lanark Silver Bell Trophy inspired by the original ancient relic.

The Watson Memorial Cup will be presented annually to the winner of one of Hamilton Park’s richest races, the Almada Mile Handicap – a fitting tribute combining local significance of both the race and the Watson family.

Advance purchase tickets for the 2019 season at Hamilton Park Racecourse are on sale now. For more information on fixtures and tickets visit www.hamilton-park.co.uk or call 01698 283806.