EVERY cloud has a silver lining it is said. The cloud in this case is the fact that AP McCoy will not close out his riding career at the Punchestown Festival, our preeminent jumps meeting.

The silver lining is that this decision is a godsend for Fairyhouse this weekend which will host the final appearance of the 20-time champion. The recommendation is that you get to the races early. If the crowds do not turn up for this occasion, what would make them go?