Leo Powell writes: In the November issue of his Kingsley Klarion newsletter, Mark Johnston’s Straight Talking column concerned one of the stalwarts of his stable, Fire Fighting. Foaled in Ireland, the four-year-old son of Soldier Of Fortune had returned unsold from the horses-in-training sales.

Mark bought Fire Fighting as a yearling at Arqana from Haras du Quesnay. He paid €70,000 for him and the colt looked value for money as a juvenile when he won twice. He was first past the post three times but was disqualified once. He raced eight times that year.