'These people and the banter, it's what keeps you going through the long hours'

In the cottage industry of smaller training yards like Jim Boyle's 24-horse stable, the simple roles are defined by their complexity.

Boyle's travelling head groom Richard Farmer starts his day as a work rider, taking two lots out on the Epsom gallops before thoughts even turn to the racecourse. It's a hot morning, not unusual in recent weeks, but enough to make any unwarranted rushing particularly unwelcome.

By the time I arrive, Farmer has already switched gears and is planning ahead for the trip to Lingfield.