‘THE next logical step was to put horse-racing’s finances on a permanent footing. If that is not done, racing will be at the whim of the Government of the day and, when the pressure comes for expenditure on things like health and education, racing will go down the political priorities list.”

THE WAITING is nearly over, the preparations are almost complete and, it seems, an entire nation is holding its breath for the start of the 2003 Cheltenham Festival tomorrow.

THE Cashmans Bookmakers/South Union Foxhounds Cheltenham Preview - regarded