It was around the time that young Archie Bellamy lost his irons on Lively Citizen that I started to miss London. Sitting in the Insurance Bar at Cheltenham and unable to move with a cracked knee  –  no more on … Read More »

As an England fan and having talked with other England fans older than me, it seems we’re experiencing a really talented generation of footballers. It’s difficult to remember a time when a place in the England squad is so competitive. … Read More »

Life is a struggle. In the context of world events it can, for many, be all too much. So I don’t want anyone reading this to think I am unaware of the misfortunes of others. There is always someone worse … Read More »

Of course, it’s always wrong, or at least inadvisable, to go looking for a bet. I was happy enough with Thomas Darby and Samarrive, both at handy prices, and it’s not as if there was anything I’d been waiting for … Read More »

Hi there! As someone who has always tried to think outside the box, I like to keep on the lookout for possible touches, especially in poor contests at lower-profile venues. Last season I wrote about a few of them, none … Read More »

This email is a sample for his Complete Service. Clients who join this service receive an email from Marten everyday by noon. They also receive every publication he publishes during the season as well as being email to him or … Read More »

Hi there, I’m not sure that the going is quite as soft as some courses are claiming at the moment. I know how hard it is to provide appropriate jumping ground during dry spells but to my eyes, especially in … Read More »

Ralf Rangnick has been confirmed as the new Manchester United interim manager, with the idea that he’ll then move into a consultancy role at the club for a further two years. So, what will the 63-year-old German bring to the … Read More »

Hi there! This unusually sustained spell of dry weather is proving frustrating for both trainers and those of us who prefer to see horses racing in more traditional conditions for the time of year. Nobody wants the sight of horses … Read More »

I have few reasons to go to London these days, which is a source of some regret, though the fact is that several of my old haunts have closed and those that are in still in business are run by … Read More »

Hi there! There does not appear to be much rain over the next seven days or so, exacerbating the current concerns about small fields. Watering is due to take place at Cheltenham for the three-day meeting starting on Friday, while … Read More »

This weekend one of the biggest fixtures in the Premier League takes place. The Manchester Derby at Old Trafford.    Games between these two have always been important to locals and fans of both clubs, but over the last 15 years … Read More »

football, Manchester Derby, Manchester United