30th October 2015

Adeenne Des Sevres wasn't helped by the overnight rain up north. The ground was given as good to soft but I doubt much good was found. However, we feel that we have learnt something from today’s run and will consider dropping him back in trip next time.

I was sorry not to go to David Allen's funeral today. I have been breaking and pre-training horses for Mr Allen for 11 years. He was my type of man, his bills were paid by return, he loved to know the truth about his horses and respected people for telling him. A great man who will be missed by many.

I was delighted to hear the news that William Fox-Pitt is now conscious. I have known Alice since childhood and my god I’d want her in the trenches with me, she has had more to deal with than most people twice her age.

Tomorrow’s race at Ascot for Singlefarmpayment is competitive. Jonjo's is clear favourite and 4 others including Singlefarmpayment are all 8-1. He is in good shape and hopefully will pack us off to Twickenham with a smile on our faces!