Trainers do not want to have non-runners – they do want winners

When 48-hour declarations came into force we were told they would bring about a significant increase in prize-money. When I look at the races my horses are contesting I don't see that increase, so I would be one of those who would say go back to 24-hour declarations and see a reduction in the number of non-runners.

I write that now because this was the week in which the BHA released tables showing individual trainers' percentage of non-runners to declarations. I was quite high up the table at ten per cent but I'm certain I've done nothing wrong.

All too often racecourses manage to get the word good into a going description when plenty of those who race on it would raise eyebrows.