SOCIAL media is a 21st century blessing or a curse, depending on how you use it. It can cost you your job, if you play the smart alec, as we saw with BBC Radio presenter Danny Baker this week.

All is seen, and in that respect, you can use it to gauge a person’s popularity. Judging by the number of tributes paid to Pat Smullen on social media this week, it is clear just how well-liked and respected he is. Best wishes came from near and far. Jump jockeys, flat jockeys, owners, trainers and racing professionals of all descriptions passed on kind words. We remember Hugh Bowman also taking time to mention him in his final post-race interview at Winx’s retirement. We join in those well wishes.