'It's all good doing it in Australia - but it doesn't translate to more owners'

At first glance, sitting in his office within the beautiful trainer's house belonging to Bedford House Stables, one of the most prestigious and stunning yards in Newmarket, you would be forgiven for thinking Charlie Fellowes has little to frown about.

Yet at just 35, the burden he carries on his shoulders should not be underestimated. Not only responsible for a team of 65 horses, he also has the wellbeing and livelihoods of 30 employees to protect. He is also trying to follow in the considerable footsteps of Luca Cumani, who sent out two Derby winners and a host of big-race scorers from Bedford House, and Fellowes is all too aware mediocrity is not an option here.

Fortunately, his shoulders are broad enough to take the strain and, having "mellowed" since becoming a father for the first time last year, he now has the capacity to take a philosophical viewpoint when things don't exactly go to plan.