THE dark evenings can seem to be endless in the Cotswolds especially with the live racing finishing early and I’ve been on the lookout for activities to keep myself occupied. There’s only so many finishes one can ride on a simulator and I’ve abandoned the use of the whip on the mechanical horse in order to learn how to keep on the right side of the stewards.

I have taken up circuit training in the village of Bourton-On-The-Water along with Grange Hill’s head lad, Richard Bevis. It not only passes the time but keeps my weight in check and as close to 10 stone as possible. I also jog up the gallop twice a day in the afternoon and after evening stables have commenced.