Fly-boy Ruby and Choc treat us to early cash cheer

THE sun is shining; the Taoiseach is gallivanting for Washington and Tracy Piggott is smiling so much she could be galloping down to Thomond Park of a Friday night.

It can only mean one thing: Cheltenham Festival fever is back.

For yours truly, that meant an excuse to snivel €20 from the sports editor’s deep but rarely ventured pockets and try my luck with some ill-advised gambles. I was also able to increase my stake to €30 too with a sure thing, buying my morning Examiner and availing of two €5 free bets at Hackett’s.