Managing director defends track after owner hits out at lack of stables

Newton Abbot managing director Pat Masterson has pointed to space limitations as he defended the racecourse amid complaints by owner Alan Walter after 32 horses were balloted out last week due to a lack of stable boxes.

Walter's Philip Hobbs-trained Miss Mobot was denied a maiden hurdle appearance at the track's meeting last Friday because the popular jumping venue has only 80 stables.

"I was very disappointed," said Walters, who works as a racehorse transporter.