Quinn could be mighty at Haydock again thanks to Safe Voyage and El Astronaute

When preparing to tackle the fare on offer this Saturday, you could be forgiven for experiencing a touch of deja vu. Trainer John Quinn will no doubt hope to experience some during the afternoon as well.

Last week, the ITV Racing team was at Haydock, where the standout contest was a valuable five-furlong dash. This Saturday Oli Bell and his chums are once again at the track, where among the principal prizes is another valuable five-furlong dash. It is, however, just one of many tempting dishes for punters, viewers and, indeed, Quinn.

This time next week we shall be anticipating the world's most famous Flat race, the Cazoo Derby, with Royal Ascot then just ten days further down the road. Few periods in the racing year are as exciting as this one – and as an aperitif there is plenty to like in the latest portion of action that makes clear it's far from grim up north.