Trainer mob-handed at Chelmsford as appeal deadline looms

Jim Best will send out six runners - including four in one race - at Chelmsford on Monday on the same day the deadline to lodge an appeal against his six-month suspension expires.

The Lewes trainer, who last Monday was found guilty of ordering conditional rider Paul John to stop two horses and conduct prejudicial to the reputation of racing, has until 5pm on Monday to decide whether to enter into another protracted battle with the BHA.

His solicitor Harry Stewart-Moore said on Saturday his client had not yet decided whether to appeal.

Before then Best, who has a runner at Lingfield on Sunday, will be represented by a quartet - Jamhoori, Bobby Benton, Officer Drivel and Austin Friars - in a mile handicap at Chelmsford and also New Street and Outrath in a similar race later on the card.

Bobby Benton became Best's first runner since he received the suspension when finishing last of eight runners at the course on Thursday, a run that was the subject of an inquiry by the stewards, who noted the trainer's representative could offer no explanation for the horse's performance.

It has emerged that Best's wife Suzie has submitted an application for a trainer's licence in a bid to take over the yard.