TO unanimous approval, the ever-engaging Dickie Johnson is progressing serenely towards his third Champion Jockey title. He will remember Native River first and foremost, maybe followed by the poignant victory of Kayley Woollacott’s Lalor at this meeting. Winning the other handicap chase on Grand National day was more than acceptable, as well.

Johnson has his principal employers all worked out – Philip Hobbs, followed by Henry Daly and Richard Phillips, with long journeys north for Gordon Elliott – but Thomas Patrick, winner of the Betway Handicap over the extended three miles, is trained by Tom Lacey on the Herefordshire borders.