Field sizes major concern for BHA chief Bittar

An increasing trend for small field sizes in National Hunt racing is "arguably the biggest challenge facing racing, and in particular jump racing", according to British Horseracing Authority chief executive Paul Bittar.

Bittar’s comments come in the wake of 14 of the 21 contests staged last weekend having to be reoffered at the final declaration stage, while this Saturday’s Grade One Long Walk Hurdle will have a maximum of just five runners if all the contenders stand their ground.

The issue of small field sizes was a priority for the BHA during the compilation of the 2015 Fixture List and race programme, and further measures may be taken to achieve long-term targets.