Racing Post said: “The immense love of racing fans and punters for Down was felt equally strongly among the press room as well as an army 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: “Everyone at the RCA is saddened to hear the news of Alastair Down’s death.

“Throughout a long and successful career, his words brought the best of our sport to countless readers and inspired many new fans and writers.

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

Down’s former colleague Derek Thompson said: “No one can bring racing to life in writing in such a tangible and exciting way.”