DOWNPATRICK received rave reviews of its upgraded stable staff canteen from the Gavin Cromwell team after last Sunday’s Randox Ulster National meeting. Prize money won from the Godolphin sponsored ITIEA was used for the upgrade.

A nicely-produced sign in the canteen reads: “Céad Míle Fáilte, 100,000 welcomes to our stable staff. Downpatrick Racecourse is Ireland’s oldest Racecourse and we love that we are still creating memories. We realise that many of you will have had an early start this morning and may have travelled hundreds of miles to be with us. It is our pleasure to welcome you with courtesy and respect.

“Please enjoy our complimentary food choices throughout the entire day. May the dream of your horse winning come true either today or at a future race meeting soon. We love it when you join us, please visit us again and again.”

A post on Cromwell’s social media said: “A huge thank you to the staff at Downpatrick on Sunday, especially in the canteen. It has been done up and looks super, with the food and staff just brilliant. Their new canteen with the message on the board looks great.” Hats off to the team at Downpatrick for fine work when it comes to looking after the backbone of our industry. See photos page 39.