AS readers can tell from the packed pages of the paper, there is no shortage of happenings in the world of the horse. Watching racing from Cheltenham as we headed to press yesterday evening is a reminder that the National Hunt season is gearing up.

Next weekend the Grade 1 chase at Down Royal, sponsored since its inception by Jim Nicholson and his wine business, will be the 20th running of the race, and sadly the last sponsored by its current supporter. The race has been won by some of the best chasers of the last two decades, notably Florida Pearl, Beef Or Salmon, Kauto Star and Kicking King.