We must do the right thing because it's in the best interests of the horses

I do not usually disagree with Alastair Down, whose writing has given me much pleasure over the years. However, his claim that the abandonment of a race at Cheltenham may have been predicated on the fear of an incident that could prove food and drink to those who loathe racing cannot pass without comment.

In my view, the racing fraternity should not be seen to do the right thing just to kowtow to the critics.

Racing, either for man or beast, is in itself stressful, but that is their job and as long as they come to as little harm as it is possible to prevent, we can rest easy.