IT has been a bleak start to the new year in more senses than one. Against the backdrop of a resurgent global pandemic and some decidedly wintry weather, there was no jumps racing in Ireland between the Fairyhouse meetings on January 3rd and January 12th, and there was an interrupted programme behind closed doors in Britain also.

In the circumstances, we can be grateful that such good action did in fact take place on Saturday in Britain, at Chepstow, Kempton and Wincanton, all three having been under threat until the day itself.