Chilly!

Another cold start again today, although at least is isn't as bad as it has been the last couple of days.  Following the abandonment of Hereford earlier in the week, we are left with four meetings today which isn't very many for a Saturday but at least they should all get the go ahead with no anticipated problems at present.  There are jumps cards from Ayr and Sandown as well as a couple of all-weather flat fixtures from Lingfield and Wolverhampton.  There are no runners from the Pond House team today, although Tom Scudamore and David Noonan have both picked up outside rides at Sandown.  Tom goes there for one, whilst David has three and they look to have a chance or two between them so let's there is a winner in it for them.

There is a good card to look forward to at Sandown today with the Grade 1 Tolworth Hurdle the highlight, supported by the ever popular veterans' series final.  The first three home from last year's renewal all take each other on again and it will make for a fascinating watch.  Talking of veterans' we have sidestepped the final with Vieux Lion Rouge as he is an intended runner in the reorganised Welsh National which will take place at Chepstow next Saturday.  Chepstow have foregone their card on Thursday to get the meeting on and should be applauded for their efforts.

We will be back with a runner at Plumpton tomorrow in their Sussex National.  Come back then for further details.

Although not for many, 2020 was quite the year for young flat jockeys Tom Marquand and Hollie Doyle.  Aside from their exploits on the track, they announced their engagement via social media on New Year's Eve from St Lucia.  They make a lovely young couple and our congratulations go to them.

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For all the moaning, Manchester United moved level with Liverpool on points at the top of the Premiership last night with a 2-1 win over Aston Villa.  Villa did not play at all badly and the difference was a second half United penalty.  Meanwhile West Ham beat Everton 1-0 away from home.  Things are certainly tight at the top of the league with no runaway leader so far.  With two games in hand, Manchester City could yet get right back in the hunt as well.  There are four matches taking place this afternoon with Tottenham Hotspur versus Leeds looking the pick of the action.

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My boss asked me why I was always ill during the week.  I told him that it must be something to do with my weekend immune system!

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