CHANNEL 4 racing has been again under the microscope as the Royal Ascot viewing figures were a long way short of the numbers recorded by the BBC when it covered the meeting.

There are calls for a lighter touch in front of the microphone. There was always the possibility that Nick Luck as front man might not appeal to allcomers. More of the professional’s professional than one with the common touch. Certainly he and Matt Chapman, who has been suggested as a good addition, sit at the opposite end of the racing broadcasters in terms of style.