New auto-recall procedure introduced at Chelmsford

Monday evening's meeting at Chelmsford was the first to be run with the new auto-recall procedure now available to all-weather courses.

The system has been developed and trialled so that in the event of the starter calling a false start, a combination of sirens and lights are activated by pushing a button on the starter’s rostrum to automatically recall runners and make this instruction more apparent to riders, replacing the advance flag operator.

Fraser Garrity, racecourse manager at Chelmsford, said: “We’ve been very happy to work with the BHA on this project since we got involved at their initial trial phase and it’s pleasing to now use the equipment as an important part of our standard raceday procedures.

"The system brings a more modern solution to the false-start process and we're always keen to embrace new innovations in British racing.”

Towcester fixture moved to Southwell

Towcester’s October 10 fixture has been transferred to Southwell. The afternoon meeting will remain a six-race jumps card, with programme details and further fixture information available via the Racing Admin website www2.racingadmin.co.uk.

Towcester's owners last month called in administrators after experiencing trading difficulties, with all racing and greyhound fixtures suspended with immediate effect.

Paul Johnson, head of racing at the BHA, said: "We remain in communications with the administrators in charge of Towcester regarding the racecourse’s remaining fixtures in 2018 and the longer-term status of the course, and will provide further updates in due course."

Pretty Pollyanna heading for Cheveley Park

Qipco 1,000 Guineas favourite Pretty Pollyanna will stay at home rather than travel to Ireland for her next start, trainer Michael Bell said on Monday.

The Gredley family-owned filly, winner of the Prix Morny last time, is a best-priced 10-1 market leader for the Guineas next May and the plan now is to further test those credentials in the Group 1 Cheveley Park Stakes at Newmarket on September 29.

Bell said: "Pretty Pollyanna will not be going to Ireland next weekend for the Moyglare Stud Stakes. One reason is that the ground may well be on the soft side over there, which she's never raced on.

"Also, the logistics of getting her there are not appealing, and we feel the short trip to Newmarket for the Cheveley Park makes more sense."

O'Shea booked for Ming in Woodbine Grade 1

Tadhg O’Shea will have his first ride for Joseph O’Brien on Saturday after being booked to partner Ming in the Grade 1 Northern Dancer Turf Stakes at Woodbine.

O’Shea, who is now mainly based in Dubai, is on a short visit to Europe, where he rides the British runners owned by Thistle Bloodstock and in Arab races, before the UAE season begins.

Ming finished sixth in the Arlington Million on his last visit to North America but is now being prepared for his next assignment in Toronto, Canada, where Godolphin’s Hawkbill will be among his opponents.

“I haven’t ridden the horse before but it’s great to get my first ride for Joseph O’Brien,” said O’Shea, 36.

“I think Ming has only 8st so hopefully off that weight he’d have a chance. He ran a very creditable race in the Arlington Million. He is taking on the older horses this time but is getting a lot of weight off the principals.”

John Dunlop service

A service of thanksgiving for the late Classic-winning trainer John Dunlop will be held in London a week on Wednesday.

Dunlop, who died in July at the age of 78, won the Derby with Shirley Heights and Erhaab and saddled more than 3,500 winners in an illustrious career. His racing legacy has continued through the successful training careers of his sons Ed and Harry.

The service will be held at 2pm at St Paul's in Knightsbridge.

Racecourses fined

Leicester and Worcester racecourses have been fined £5,000 and £3,000 respectively connected to failings over boxes at race meetings.

Leicester's fine dates from their fixture on June 16, when the sampling box was found to be unclean and did not meet the ‘scrupulously clean and hygienic’ standard required.

Worcester's fine was from their meeting on July 4, when the required hygiene clean of the racecourse stables had not been carried out to a sufficient standard.