A statue of legendary jumps jockey Sir Tony McCoy will be unveiled on the opening day of next month's Cheltenham Festival.

McCoy retired nearly two years ago having been crowned champion jockey 20 times and ridden 31 winners at National Hunt racing's showpiece meeting.

The life size bronze, crafted by Dublin-based sculptor Paul Ferriter, will be situated y the north entrance to the racecourse.

"I last saw Paul's work about seven weeks' ago, just before it was about to get bronzed and it looked very, very good. I took some videos and showed them to friends who agreed that Paul has really captured my likeness," McCoy said.

"Some of my friends were wondering whether the statue was going to be the old or new me - the 10 stone one or the 12 stone one!

"Paul has done really well in sculpturing me as a jockey and it was a very enjoyable working with him.

"I thought most people got a statue when they were dead! I guess it will give the birds somewhere to sit."

Ian Renton, regional director, Cheltenham & The South West, the Jockey Club, said it was fitting McCoy should be honoured in such a way.

"The achievements of Sir AP McCoy are truly outstanding and we are proud to recognise them with this permanent tribute at the home of jump racing," he said.