THIS week I was contacted by three friends and all by different means. A long-time friend took to writing to me, another called and we shared news and support, while a third sent a text. All three contacts were most welcome and uplifting. They also have all inspired me to spend this weekend doing something similar.

I am lucky to be busy with work and have been moved by the many readers who got in touch to say what it meant to them to have the paper available. The variety of content also seems to be appreciated, especially when many have unexpected downtime. I hope we can continue to inform and entertain you in the coming weeks.

It is hard to be always positive at a time like this, but for many reasons we need to be. If you or any family member is finding it a struggle, it is vital that you speak with someone close to you or to one of the many helplines and groups available to help. You will find details of some of these on page 18. For the duration of this present difficult time we will have a health page in the paper.

The news that the Punchestown Festival 2020 is lost this year was looking increasingly inevitable as time went on, and confirmation came this week. If history is anything to go by, it will be back bigger and better in 2021. Its loss will still hit hard, as has the cancellation of all racing impacted on other courses. When racing returns, and spectators are allowed, it has to be a priority that we all rally round to support our local tracks.

The enforced early end to the National Hunt season means that we now know the outcome to the various category titles. While five of the champions were odds-on to be crowned such at the end of Punchestown, we have been denied a nail-biting fight for the trainers’ title.

Just over €100,000 separated Willie Mullins and Gordon Elliott, and what an added frisson of tension and excitement that contest would have produced with Fairyhouse and Punchestown still to run.

Breeders and stallion masters are operating presently under strict protocols, allowing that important sector to continue. There is pressure on those involved, and on other service providers such as veterinary surgeons, and it is absolutely vital that everyone adheres to the rules. Anyone not doing so puts an entire sector at risk.

Meanwhile, my best wishes to you all and remember our current motto. Stay safe and stay with us. Together we are stronger.