Johnson Houghton blasts drop in course's prize-money

Eve Johnson Houghton has described the reduction in prize-money for the 1m2f Bathwick Tyres Handicap (2.50) at Newbury as a "disgrace", and that it is effectively a "pay cut" for those involved.

Last year the handicap, which is being screened live on Channel 4, was worth a total of £30,000, with £18,675 to the winner. This time it is worth £20,000 overall, with the victor receiving £12,938.

Johnson Houghton, who ran What About Carlo in the race last term and returns with the five-year-old, said: "I love Newbury, it's my local track, they do a lot of things well and look after owners very well.