Three Runners At Ludlow

There are just two meetings taking place this afternoon but at least one of them is a jumps card!  The action comes from Ludlow over the sticks while there is also an all-weather flat fixture from Lingfield.  David has three runners at Ludlow; The Minkle, Baraka de Thaix and Doctor Harper.  The Minkle would need to improve on what he has shown thus far and looks to have it to do to turn over odds-on favourite The Gipper.  Baraka de Thaix is forecast favourite for the maiden hurdle at 2.30pm and on the best of his form he would take plenty of beating, although he has been inclined to throw in the odd disappointing effort.  Doctor Harper takes in the novices' chase and he was a very decent hurdler a couple of seasons ago - he will like the ground but looks up against it with Garde la Victoire in opposition, even if we are in receipt of 10lbs.

I see that the ground at Taunton for their fixture tomorrow is being described as 'gluey'.  I hope it isn't super glue otherwise all of the runners are really going to get stuck in the ground!  It is dry and cold this morning and we are only around 10 miles from the course so I would be surprised if racing didn't go ahead without a hitch...famous last words!

Looking to later in the week and particularly Warwick on Saturday, a lot of our prize money could be going back to Ireland if the meeting gets the go ahead.  Willie Mullins looks likely to send a few over - perhaps the BHA should consider making a rule that states the horses have to be trained in England?  We will beat him somehow!!!

It is crooner Des O'Connor's 84th birthday today.  I remember taking a call from Des years ago when he wanted to speak to MCP - when he told me who it was I thought he was taking the mickey so I asked him to give me a song!  When he started singing I told Martin that Des O'Connor was on the phone...it was funny at the time.  Anyway, many happy returns Des.

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Manchester United boss Louis Van Gaal seems to be the latest Premier League manager losing his marbles after his own admission that he gets bored watching his side play.  What chance do the fans have?  Van Gaal says that the crowds leave early so they can miss the traffic...does he live in the real world?

Meanwhile I see that Bolton are selling a car park in a bid to stave off administration although in fairness it would probably be better if they played in the car park!

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How does the abominable snowman go to the shops?  By icicle!

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