Ban on Curragh exercise

Trainers at the Curragh will not be allowed to exercise their horses at the world-famous training ground as a result of the foot and mouth outbreak.

The news is a serious blow to the many trainers who share the Curragh as many have no private gallops.

Those include Derby-winning trainer John Oxx.

Tony Redmond of the Irish Racehorse Trainers Association said today: "Our chief veterinary officer has issued an edict this afternoon which says the Curragh must not be used for the forseeable future. It is very serious."