Key information and latest going on the day General Tufto bows out at Southwell

They are racing the length and breadth of England on Thursday. The day's two jumps meetings come from Hexham and Exeter, which are nearly as far apart as two racecourses south of Hadrian's Wall can get.

The big draw of the day may be at Southwell, however, as the much-loved General Tufto, who made his debut a week before Lucarno won the St Leger, makes his 126th and final appearance on the Fibresand.

In the evening, Chelmsford (which, incidentally, was not even Great Leighs when General Tufto started out) takes over with an eight-race card.

Going report

Southwell (first race 11.50)
Standard

Hexham (12.30)
Heavy, soft in places

Exeter (12.40)
Heavy. Rail movements: 12.40 & 1.10 +60yds; 1.40, 2.10 & 2.40 +12yds; 3.10 & 3.40 +110yds

Chelmsford (5.30)
Standard

Market movers

1.30 Hexham Niven 6-5 (from 11-8)
2.40 Exeter Goodgirlteresa 11-2 (from 13-2)
6.00 Chelmsford Tajawoz 11-4 (from 7-2)
8.30 Chelmsford Choice Encounter 7-2 (from 4)

What to back

Check out today's ten-second tip, from Chelmsford.

What to read

Is Bristol De Mai best around Haydock? His trainer does not seem so sure, and here is why. And here is Ruby Walsh having his say on numerous hot topics.

What to watch

If you want Paul Nicholls' view on his big contenders over the festive period, look no further.

The best of Racing Post Sport

There are some cracking second-round matches at the World Darts Championship today. Steve Davies finds the best bets. And if you are in the mood for a juicy ante-post golf bet, check out Steve Palmer's view on the Race to Dubai.

Final thought

We all know General Tufto's style of racing by now, but those who were reporting on the all-weather season in 2008-09 may also remember a strong traveller in orange and black silks who achieved a four-day double for 7lb claimer Holly Hall. He is one of few remaining horses to span this writer's career in the sport.

For the freshest betting advice, based on latest going and market conditions, don't miss the Live Tipster every afternoon. Just click Raceday Live at racingpost.com or the mobile app