Late Derby Sale cancellation a major blow for consignors

It tells you all you need to know about the week we've had that Barry Geraghty's retirement will go down as one of the few good news stories to emerge away from track results.

We're naturally inclined to lament the departure of such a recognisable presence, a big personality whose class and charisma added a dash of lustre to racing's appeal. Geraghty will be a serious loss to the sport's image as, like Ruby Walsh and Sir Anthony McCoy, he resonated a little beyond our own little parish.

Still, when a jump jockey retires of his own volition at 40 years of age, sound of mind and limb, it is something to celebrate. So we're going to classify his weighing room exit as a good news story.