The Racing Post said: “The enormous affection of racing fans and punters for Down was felt equally keenly in the press room, plus among a legion of owners, trainers, jockeys, breeders and grooms.”

Champion trainer Paul Nicholls also paid tribute, saying: “How sad, top man, top journalist always enjoyed my chats with him including at Cheltenham last Friday. RIP Alastair.”

The Racecourse Association added: “All at the RCA are saddened to hear the news of Alastair Down’s death.

“His words across a long and successful career delivered the best of our sport to countless readers, inspiring many new fans and writers.

“We were delighted to see his name honoured at Cheltenham Races last week.”

Down’s former colleague Derek Thompson said: “No one could bring racing alive in print in such a tangible and electrifying way.”