THERE was a slightly disappointing four-runner turn-out for the Listed Denford Stud Washington Singer Stakes over seven furlongs, but favourite backers were not complaining as Frankie Dettori brought evens favourite Escobar from behind the leading trio to score quite tidily by just over a length from Mr Scaramanga. It was five lengths back to the disappointing Amabilis.

The winner, trained by Hugo Palmer, was following up his debut victory at the same course and will probably be taking on the leading juveniles before the season is out.

Mark Johnston chose to run Frankel’s son Frankuus in the race. He finished last of four, having been squeezed for room once headed. The race would certainly have been more informative had the trainer fielded Bear Valley, who burst clear under a big weight in a Goodwood nursery. He is a very interesting sort.

Dettori was making it 3,001 British career victories after hitting the 3,000 mark on Predilection at Newmarket the night before. Fittingly, he reached the milestone on a horse trained by Gosden, who has been such a great supporter over the years. The Italian is one of only six jockeys to reach 3,000 in Britain and could conceivably move into fifth position by passing Doug Smith’s 3,111.

“I’m going to carry on for as long as I can,’’ the 45-year-old said with a smile. “I’m healthy, I have stable support and I’m really enjoying it. Success breeds success.’’