IT is not such a happy anniversary to remember, but it is also an illustration of how much life has changed – and for the better. A decade ago I was one of the many people evacuated from Down Royal racecourse when a bomb threat was made on the day of the scheduled running of the then named James Nicholson Wine Merchant Champion Chase. The threat was a hoax but some 9,000 had to be quickly brought to safety and the tasty battle between Beef Or Salmon and War Of Attrition did not materialise.

In an editorial the following week I called on racegoers to support Down Royal more than ever and I am glad to say the course today is in rude health.