The premier horse racing broadcaster Racing UK has signed the legendary Ruby Walsh, widely hailed as one the best jump jockeys in the world, as the channel's ambassador.

Walsh's celebrated roll of honour includes two John Smith's Grand National victories (Papillon and Hedgehunter) as well as an astonishing 24 winners at the Cheltenham Festival, including a record-breaking seven successes at last year's renewal.

The Irishman has signed a three-month deal to sport Racing UK branding and represent the channel throughout the media.

"I'm delighted to be working with Racing UK," commented the 30-year-old. "Winning any race at the Cheltenham Festival is a special thrill for a jockey and Racing UK is the only channel to show every race live, and the coverage is renowned for its in-depth analysis and uninterrupted programming."

Walsh is set to have a top-class book of rides earmarked for the four-day Cheltenham Festival, which begins on March 16, including Master Minded in the Seasons Holidays Queen Mother Champion Chase, Big Buck's in the Ladbrokes World Hurdle, and Kauto Star in the Totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup. However, Walsh has singled out a lower-profile horse to follow at the Festival in the shape of Quevega.

"I'm really looking forward to riding Quevega in the David Nicholson Mares' Hurdle Race," he said. "She won the race impressively last year and felt in great form when I rode her recently."

Racing UK, which also sponsors champion conditional rider Aidan Coleman on a two-year deal, is the only place to watch all 27 races of the Cheltenham Festival, and coverage will begin at 9am for all of the four days.

Racing UK Commercial Director Nick Mills said: "Ruby Walsh has dominated jumps racing in recent years and has incredible firepower at his disposal.

"We are delighted such a talent was so quick to put his name to Racing UK and he is a perfect ambassador for the channel.

"We now have one the best jumps jockey in the world in Ruby and a rising star in Aidan Coleman in the Racing UK stable, and we look forward to working with both over the coming months."

The deal is a strategic step for Racing UK, which has quickly and successfully rebuilt its status as an independent broadcaster after the demise of pay-TV partner, Setanta, last year.

Racing UK is available on Sky 432 (UK, NI, ROI), Virgin 536 (UK) or Chorus ntl 411 (ROI). For more information or to subscribe, go to www.racinguk.com.