Sir Peter O’Sullevan may be hospitalised presently, but there can be no dampening his spirit – or his work ethic. The doyen of racing commentators will be 97 years old on March 3rd, but he called The Irish Field’s managing editor Leo Powell last week to discuss the updated version of his classic Calling The Horses. A quarter of a century after the original, and much lauded, volume, the latest offering brings the story up to date, while also reflecting on some of the stories of the past.

For those who have an original volume, there is plenty to add to the mix in the new version. For those who may never have read the book, now is a chance to enjoy a master of the word. Surely one of the most respected scribes or broadcasters of any era, Sir Peter’s take on many of the most important stories in racing is sure to be popular.