THE “how many winners have you ridden?” response from those in the saddle when criticised is easily countered - my culinary skills do not extend much beyond beans on toast but I know a good meal when I eat one - though it becomes more forgivable when those on the sidelines who try to pass themselves off as experts have failed to acquaint themselves fully with the evidence.

The Investec-sponsored Derby and Oaks at Epsom last week saw more than a few armchair jockeys quick to castigate but slow to weigh up the facts.