ATHLONE trainer Tom Cleary and his family are battling to keep flood waters from the River Shannon out of their house this weekend. Already their gallop has been destroyed and the stableyard rendered uninhabitable.

This week Cleary moved six horses to the Curragh Racecourse stables and is grateful for the help he has received. “Michael Grassick put me in touch with Curragh manager Paul Hensey who told me to come on with the horses. I’m able to work them on the Old Vic and I have to thank the Curragh for their kindness.”