North West : Area News : Weatherbys Point-to-Point

Last Updated - 23 May 2007

Fixtures

May

North Western Area Point-to-Point Championships - Winners at the End of the Season

LEADING HORSE
Sponsored by Nantwich Veterinary Group

1st Mrs V Park's - Merry Path 25pts
2nd The Red Withers Partnership's - Murat 20pts
3rd Mr P Harney's - Homemade 19pts

LEADING GENTLEMAN RIDER
Sponsored by The Coniston Hotel

1 st Richard Burton 69pts
2 nd Jonathan Jarrett 42pts
3 rd Will Kinsey 38pts

LEADING LADY RIDER
Sponsored by Richard & Carrie Ford Racing

1 st Miss Sue Sharratt 35pts
2 nd Miss Sam Beddoes 22pts
3 rd Miss Hannah Kinsey 18pts

LEADING NOVICE HORSE
Sponsored by Shade Oak Stud

1 st The Red Withers Partnership's Murat 11pts
2 nd Mr D Malam's Master of The Ward 9pts
3 rd = Miss J Frogatt's Vallum 8pts
Mrs B Everall's Lord Louis 8pts
Caldwell, Parrington & Kinsey's Would Wouldn't 8pts

LEADING NOVICE RIDER (MALE OR FEMALE)
Sponsored by The Garton Family

1 st Tim Park 23pts
2 nd Miss Pernilla Hermanson 13pts
3 rd Harry Challoner 11 pts

LEADING FAMILY HORSE
Sponsored by Walter Heys Esq.

1 st Mrs V Park's Merry Path 16pts
2 nd = Mr & Mrs T R Kinsey's Flashy Boy 8pts
Mrs V Park's Springwood White 8pts

LEADING EYTON NOVICE HORSE
Sponsored by Reg Stone Esq.

1 st Lord Louis 8pts

LEADING VETERAN RIDER (MALE OR FEMALE)
Sponsored by David Heys Esq.

1 st G Hanmer 22pts

Compiled by David Bostock Tel: 07734 808050

The 2007 North West Area Dinner & Prize giving will take place at Chester Racecourse on Friday 1st June 2007.

For ticket details please contact Mrs Rebecca Hewitt, Tel: 01939 261313

North West Hunts Club Preview - 20 May

THE NORTH WEST HUNTS CLUB BRING THE CURTAIN DOWN ON THE 2007 SEASON IN THE NORTH WESTERN AREA AT TABLEY THIS SUNDAY MAY 20TH 2007

The North West Hunts Club bring the curtain down on the 2007 season in the North Western Area at Tabley this Sunday May 20 th 2007. Their fixture has a attracted a decent entry of 142. Nick Bostock, the area secretary for the North Western area, who is also the entries secretary for this meeting, was pleased with the advance entries. He said, "We had such a long and prolonged dry spell, that a lot of owners and trainers roughed off their horses early. I am delighted to get such a good entry, and I am looking forward to a good days racing with plenty of runners."

Clerk of the course Rob Hankey listed the going as Good on Sunday May 13 th 2007. Speaking yesterday evening, Hankey said, "the ground is currently good after all the much needed rain yesterday. If the ground started to dry out then we would water as necessary, to ensure good ground for our fixture."

Racing comes under starters orders at 2.00pm and is set to conclude at 5.40pm.

Admission to this popular Cheshire course, is £30 per car for reserved car parking, £20 per car for normal car parking, with Single occupancy charged at £10.

As well as the usual trade stands there will be a very large farmers market situated next to the trade stands.

The Scally Muire is the feature race of the season in North Western Area, in terms of prestige and prize money as the race is worth a monkey to the winning owner. The late great scribe Jeffrey Bernard is credited with the following quotation about racecourses, "Racing is really an alfresco drinking club that moves its location from day to day." On a similar note the Scally Muire race moves locations each season. In 2007 the race has come to Tabley and will be run as a conditions race for novice riders. This race may well crown Merry Path as the Leading Horse in this neck of the woods, the Alphabatim gelding is trained by Sheila Crow and ridden in his races by Tim Park, and owned by his mother Vicky. Their horse is already the leading family horse, and Park has also wrapped up the novice riders championship in the North Western Area. Darnil trained by Sheila Crow, had been the champion horse in the North West for the previous two seasons. Merry Path's victory will not be enough if Murat wins the Restricted as he would secure more points than Merry Path, Murat's trainer Steve Wynne will be training under rules next season.

Also up for grabs in the North Western area is the title of champion lady rider, Sue Sharratt has 24pts, Sammie Beddoes is on 21pts and Hannah Kinsey has 18pts, an exciting end to our season

If you require a car pass, can you please write to the North West Hunts Club secretary-Mrs T Garton, White Barn Farm, Over Alderley, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 4SF Tel 01625 584543 mobile 07751 849493

If you require any further information or any problems, I can be
contacted on Tel/fax 0151 920 3700, mobile 07939 201608
email snowy.shone@btopenworld.com .

Derek Malam, the North Western Hunts Club Sponsorship secretary, would like to invite the press and photographers to join him for refreshments in his marquee on the day.

North Shropshire Hunt Preview - 7 May

THE NORTH SHROPSHIRE HUNT STAGE A COMPETITIVE DAYS RACING AT EYTON ON SEVERN ON MAY BANK MONDAY MAY 7TH 2007

The North Shropshire Hunt stage the penultimate meeting of the season in the North Western Area this May Bank Holiday Monday May 7th 2007 at Eyton on Severn, they have also attracted a reasonable entry of 118 for their fixture.

This fixture is also the only evening meeting taking place in the North Western area this season .The hunt committee took the view that there were a lot of meetings taking place under rules around the time of their fixture, so they decided to stage an evening meeting between the flags. One of the reasons behind their reasoning, was that a 4.00pm start may attract more families to the Shropshire course. It is not all that long ago that Bangor on Dee used to stage their Friday evening meeting under rules with a 3.45pm start, and that meeting was very popular with families.

Racing comes under starters at 4.00pm at Eyton and set to conclude at 7.35pm. Racegoers are advised to give themselves plenty of time getting on to the course as crowds of 15,000 to 20,000 are the norm for this fixture

Admission to this popular Shropshire course, which has been racing since 1923 is only £20 per car regardless of the number of passengers, which represents good value for money. There will be a reduction of £10 for single occupancy.

As well as a good days racing in prospect there is also the fair for the younger generation, and for the grown ups there is an abundance of trade stands.

Stuart Dickin, who is assisting the clerk Of the course John Beddoes lists the going as Good to Firm with watering on Monday April 30th h 2007. Speaking earlier this evening , Dickin said, "We started watering this morning at 6.15am and we will continue to water as necessary to ensure the best possible ground for our meeting."

The Mrs Bibby Silver Fox trophy that goes to the winning owner of the Volkswagon Touareg Men's Open is a much coveted prize in the North West area, ownership of which is on a par with the Holy Grail. The first two horses past the judge in this contest will qualify for the £10,000 Volkswagon Touareg Men's Point-To-Point Championship Hunter Chase Final at Towcester on Monday May 14 th 2007. Heading The entries is the Sheila Crow trained Ballylusky, the Lord Americo gelding crashed out of the Lady Dudley Cup at Chaddesley Corbett last time out, prior to that mishap he had won four races this season, and will be the form horse in the race if he faces the starter. Caroline Robinson's horses are starting to hit form at present and it would be no surprise to see her charge Honest Yer Honour, a former hunter chase winner at Aintree run well in this race.

If you require a car pass could you please write to the North Shropshire Hunt secretary-Mrs L Dickin, Aston Farm, Aston, Wellington, Telford, Shropshire TF6 5AE tel/fax 01952 740259

If you require any further information or any problems, I can be contacted on tel/fax 0151 920 3700 mobile 07939 201608 email snowy.shone@btopenworld.com Arthur Shone N.W Area Press Officer.

The North Shropshire Hunt would like to invite the press and photographers to join them for refreshments in their sponsors marquee during the afternoon. Could you please collect a sponsors badge from the secretary on arrival for admittance to this marquee.

April

Holcombe Hunt Preview - 21 Apr

**HOT OFF THE PRESS**
The latest is the going is generally good with lots of grass and we are watering again tonight to ensure the best possible going.

THE HOLCOMBE HUNT STAGE A GOOD COMPETIVE DAYS RACING AT WHITTINGTON, NR KIRBY LONSDALE THIS SATURDAY APRIL 21ST 2007

The Holcombe Hunt has attracted an entry of 172 for their meeting at Whittington, Nr Kirby Lonsdale, this Saturday April 21st 2007, which is a 5% increase on the corresponding meeting last year.

Racing comes under starters orders at 2.00pm and is set to conclude at 5.30pm, providing they do not divide any races, looking at the entries if the Holcombe do decide to split a race it will probably be the Open Maiden with 35.

Clerk of the course Chris Hodgson is aiming for Good ground for this Saturday's fixture. Speaking this evening, he said, "The course is currently being watering ahead of our meeting, my aim is to produce good going for the meeting, it will be no worse than good to firm on the day. The course has come back well after the Vale of Lune meeting on Easter Saturday, the grass has come back well, we will be moving a couple of bends onto fresh going, and we are looking forward to a good meeting."

Admission to this popular Cumbrian course is £25 per car, regardless of the number of passengers, single occupancy will be charged at £10.

The first two horses past the judge in the Volkswagon Touareg Men's Open will qualify for the £10,000 Volkswagon Touareg Point-To-Point Championship Hunter Chase Final at Cheltenham at Towcester on Monday May 14 th 2007. Heading the 33 entries is the Sheila Crow trained Ballylusky, which has won four races already this season, however the Lord Americo gelding is more likely to run in the Lady Dudley Cup at Chaddesley Corbett on the same day. Crow has a very able substitute in the progressive The Accordion Man, who has not come off the bridle in both his wins this season. Lord Daresbury is represented by both Hermes 111 and Sikander A Azam, both horses are trained by David Easterby, and both are decent pointers, the latter ran out a very convincing winner at Charm Park on Easter Monday beating Bobby Buttons readily by 8 lengths. Border Fusion is rated very highly by his trainer Gary Hamner and Rebel Army has won at Alpraham this season, this looks a cracking contest

If you require a car pass can you write to the Holcombe Hunt secretary Charles Birch Esq, Crowthorn End Farm, Edgworth, Bolton, Lancs Bl7 0JX Tel 07973 358351.

If you require any further information or any problems , I can be contacted on tel/fax 0151-920-3700 mobile 07939-201608 email snowy.shone@btopenworld.com Arthur Shone N.W Area Press Officer.

The Holcombe Hunt would like to invite the press and photographers to join them for refreshments in their hospitality marquee during the afternoon.

** The Holcombe will be watering to ensure the going is good. We have already started and will do as much as is needed. **

Cheshire Forest Hunt Preview - 15 Apr

THE CHESHIRE FOREST HUNT STAGE A COMPETITIVE DAYS RACING AT TABLEY, NR KNUTSFORD ON GRAND NATIONAL SUNDAY 15TH APRIL 2007

The Cheshire Forest Hunt stage a good competitive days racing between the flags at Tabley this Sunday April 15 th 2007, and they have attracted a bumper entry of 203, which is 2% up on the corresponding meeting last year. This fixture comes the day after the three day John Smiths Grand National meeting at Liverpool, many racegoers regard the Cheshire Forest meeting at Tabley as the fourth day of a festival of racing in the North West.

Racing comes under starters orders at 2.00pm and is set to conclude at 5.40pm.

Clerk of the course Rob Hankey lists the going as good to firm on Tuesday April 10th 2007. Speaking earlier in the day, he said," We started watering the course yesterday, the forecast is for hotter weather this week, so we will continue to water as necessary for the rest of the week to ensure that there is no jar in the ground."

Admission to this popular Cheshire course is £25 per car, regardless of the number of passengers, for single occupancy the charge will be £10

There will be a parade of the Cheshire Forest Hounds at around 3.00pm, this event is very popular with the younger generation who love to go into the parade ring and mingle with the hounds.

One of the feature races on the card is the Volkswagon Touareg Men's Open. The first two horses past the judge are eligible for the £10,000 Volkswagaon Touareg Championship Hunter chase Final at Towcester on Monday May 14 th 2007. Heading the entries is the Caroline Robinson trained Whistling Straights, the Flemensfirth gelding is a progressive pointer as he showed at Garthorpe last time out when beating Kilarney Prince readily by 3 lengths . The principal danger is the Gary Hanmer trained Tinarana Lord who beat No Retreat , the dual Bangor Final winner No Retreat last time out at the North Wales course.

If you require a car pass, could you please write to the Cheshire Forest Hunt secretary-Mrs K Waterworth, Eddisbury Lodge, Delamere, Northwich, Cheshire CW8 2JD Tel- 01829 752744

If you require any further information or any problems, I can be contacted on tel/fax 0151-920-3700 mobile 07939 201608 email snowy.shone@btopenworld.com Arthur Shone N.W. Area Press Officer

The Cheshire Forest Hunt would like to invite the press and photographers to join them for refreshments in their hospitality marquee on the afternoon.

High Peak Hunt Preview - 10 Apr

THE HIGH PEAK HUNT STAGE A GOOD COMPETITIVE DAYS RACING AT FLAGG MOOR, NR BUXTON ON EASTER TUESDAY APRIL 10TH 2007

The High Peak Hunt have attracted an entry of 101 for their meeting at Flagg Moor, Nr Buxton this Easter Tuesday April 10 th 2007.

The seven race comes under starters orders at 1.00pm and concludes at 4.40pm.

Car Parking at this popular Derbyshire course will be free for the first time on Easter Tuesday. Admission will be £10 per person, with children under 16 admitted for free.

The new clerk of the course is the former High Peak secretary Sue Rodman. In her first going report she lists the going as Good with small firm patches on one of the fields on Monday April 2nd 2007.

Many historians regard Flagg Moor as the jewel in the crown in the North Western area, it is the oldest point to point course, which dates back to 1892. Hunting in the High Peak started in 1848 with the establishment of the Stanton Harriers. Some twelve years later the kennels were moved to Bakewell, where they remain to this day, although on a different site and the Hunt was renamed the High Peak Harriers.

The High Peak Members race is unique as it takes place over the famous limestone walls, in fact it is the only Members race in the country that takes place over natural hunting country. The only major changes that have taken place to this great spectacle, came about in 1936 when the distance was reduced from four and a half miles to three and half, which prompted old timers to express that the sport had gone soft. About eight years ago the start was moved to the village of Flagg, otherwise the contest has remained virtually unchanged for over a hundred years.

Rachael McQueen, the new High Peak secretary knows the form of all the runners in the Members race as she goes out hunting with all of them, and Rachael is very confident that the race will be won by Henry Tartar with Juliet Thornhill in the plate. She also recommends a saver on Christopher Robin, who will be ridden by Pip Clayton.

The High Peak will be having a parade of their hounds after the second race, this event is very popular with the younger generation, who love to go into the paddock and mingle with the hounds.

Flagg Races now have their own web site www.flaggraces.co.uk . This is well worth a visit, there are archive photos on the site, also the history of the High Peak, and much more to enthrall point to point enthusiasts from all over the country.

If you require a car pass, could you please write to the High Peak Hunt secretary Mrs Rachael J McQueen, 1 Broadmeadows, Alport, Youlgrave, Derbyshire DE45 1LH Tel 01629 636812 mob 07900 901271

If you require any further information or any problems , I can be contacted on tel/fax 0151 920-3700 mobile 07939 201608 email snowy.shone@btopenworld.com Arthur Shone N.W.Area Press Officer.

The High Peak Hunt would like to invite the press and photographers to join them for refreshments in their hospitality marquee on the afternoon.

South Shropshire Hunt Preview - 9 Apr

THE SOUTH SHROPSHIRE HUNT STAGE A GOOD COMPETITIVE DAYS RACING AT EYTON ON SEVERN ON EASTER MONDAY 9TH APRIL 2007

The South Shropshire Hunt have attracted a bumper entry of 170 for their meeting at Eyton on Severn on Easter Monday April 9t h 2007

Racing comes under starters orders at 1.30pm and is set to conclude at 5.10pm . Racegoers are advised to arrive early because this fixture often attracts a crowd of 10,000 plus.

Clerk Of the course John Beddoes lists the going as Good on Monday April 2nd 2007.Speaking earlier this evening, he said, "The ground has gone back really well after the Tanatside meeting. It always suprises me how much moisture there is underneath the soil, at the moment it is good genuine ground."

The first horse past the judge in the Mens' Open is eligible for the £10,000 Volkswagon Toureg Men's Point-To-Point Championship Hunter Chase Final at Towcester on Monday May 14 th 2007. Heading the entries is Ballylusky the prolific winning pointer from the Sheila Crow yard, also amongst the entries from the same stable is Go For Bust who was a very impressive winner at Bangor on Dee last Sunday.Whistling Straights from the Caroline Robinson yard won well at Garthorpe, Cornish Gale, Shraden Edition and the dual Bangor Final winner No Retreat make this a good race to savour.

The South Shropshire Hunt will be having a parade of their hounds after the third race, this event is very popular with the younger generation who love to go into the paddock and mingle with the hounds.

If you require a car pass could you please write to the South Shropshire Hunt secretary-Mrs Lynn Wallace, 1 Ty Uchaf, Froncysyllte, Llangollen, Wrexham tel/fax 01691 772393 mobile 07779 141721

If you require any further information or any problems, I can be contacted on tel/fax 0151 920 3700 mobile 07939 201608 email snowy.shone@btopenworld.com Arthur Shone N.W Area Press Officer.

The South Shropshire Hunt would like to invite the press and photographers to join them for refreshments in their secretary's marquee during the afternoon.

North Staffs Hunt Preview - 7 Apr

THE NORTH STAFFS STAGE A GOOD COMPETITIVE DAYS RACING AT SANDON, NR STONE ON EASTER SATURDAY APRIL 7th 2007

The North Staffs Hunt have attracted 135 entries for their fixture at Sandon, Nr Stone on Easter Saturday April 7th 2007, which is exactly the same number of entries they had in 2006.

Racing comes under starters orders at 1.00pm and is set to conclude at 5.00pm . After racing the North Staffs Hunt will be staging two pony races, one for ponies up to 13.2 hands and the other for ponies 14.2 hands. It is worth reflecting that the greatest ever jockey of the 19 th century Fred Archer, rode his first ever winner in a pony race on Maid Of Trent in 1868 at Bangor on Dee, aged 10.

Clerk of the course Mark Allman lists the going as good to firm on Sunday April 1st 2007.Allman will be watering the course from Monday afternoon to ensure that there is no sting in the ground for Easter Saturday

Admission to this popular Staffordshire course is only £20 per car, regardless of the number of passengers , which represents good value for money. There will be a £5 reduction for single occupancy

The feature race on the card is the Volkswagen Touareg Men's Open, the first two horses passed the judge qualify for the £10,000 Volkswagen Touareg Hunter Chase Final at Towcester on Monday May 14 th 2007, there is also a bonus of £5,000 to the winning owner if their horse has finished first or second past the jam stick in a Volkswagen Touareg Men's Open qualifier. Heading the entries is the Sheila Crow trained Ballylusky, a prolific winner this season. The Lord Americo gelding is a leading contender for the Lady Dudley Cup at Chaddesley Corbett on April 21 st . Tinarana Lord from the in form Gary Hanmer yard beat the dual Bangor Final winner No Retreat in a hunter chase at Bangor earlier in the month and has strong claims, as too does the Garthorpe winner Whistling Straights and Copper Grove a recent Alpraham winner, a good race in prospect

If you require any further information or any problems, I can be contacted on tel/fax 0151 920 3700 mobile 07939 201 608 email snowy.shone@ btopenworld.com Arthur Shone N.W Area Press Officer.

If you require a car pass, could you please write to Mrs Diane Cope, Marsh Farm, Offley Marsh, Eccleshall, Staffs ST21 6HE Tel 01785-280758 Fax 01785 280412

The North Staffs Hunt would like to invite the press and photographers to join them for refreshments in their hospitality marquee during the afternoon.

Vale of Lune Hunt Preview - 1 Apr

THE VALE OF LUNE STAGE A GOOD COMPETITIVE DAYS RACING AT WHITTINGTON, NR KIRBY LONSDALE ON EASTER SATURDAY APRIL 7TH 2007

The Vale of Lune Hunt stage a good competitive days racing between the flags at Whittington, Nr Kirby Lonsdale on Easter Saturday April 7 th 2007.This fixture has attracted 103 entries, which is an increase of 8% on the corresponding meeting last year.

Racing comes under starters orders at 2.00pm and is set to conclude at 4.55pm .

Clerk of the course Chris Hodgkinson lists the going as Good on Sunday April 1 st 2007. Hodgkinson will be watering the course if necessary from Wednesday of this week.

Admission to this popular Cumbrian course is only £20 per car, regardless of the number of passenger, which represents excellent value for money There will be a reduction of £5 for single occupancy .

The Ladies Open looks a very decent contest. Amongst the entries is the Nicky Richards trained Lord Jack, the Mister Lord gelding is a winning chaser under rules in the winning Aintree Grand National colours of Trevor Hemmings , two seasons ago he finished runner up to Spot Thediffence in the cross country race at Cheltenham. The Russell Ross trained Suetsu is a very consistent pointer winning a Members at Corbridge last season. Winners this season to note are Coy Lad, Flashy Boy In Hot Pursuit and Step And Run, a cracking contest to look forward to.

The Vale of Lune will be having a parade of their hounds at around 12.30pm, this event is very popular with the younger generation who love to go into the parade ring and mingle with the hounds.

After racing there will be a hunt ride, which will consist of one circuit and 7 fences to jump, each rider in the race will have nominated a charity of their choice beforehand. The Hunt secretary Keith Thomas is expecting around 6 runners in the ride.

If you require a car pass, could you please write to the Vale of Lune Hunt secretary-K Thomas Esq, Murray Holme, Roadhead, Carlisle, Cumbria CA6 6PJ tel 01697 748157

If you require any further information or any problems, I can be contacted on tel/fax 0151-920-3700 mobile 07939 201608 email snowy.shone@btopenworld.com Arthur Shone N.W. Area Press Officer

March

Flint & Denbigh Preview - 1 Apr

LATEST PRESS RELEASE: THE FLINT & DENBIGH HUNT STAGE A GOOD COMPETITIVE DAYS RACING AT BANGOR ON DEE THIS SUNDAY APRIL 1ST 2007

The Flint & Denbigh Hunt have attracted 157 entries, for their fixture between the flags at Bangor on Dee this Sunday April 1 st 2007, which should ensure plenty of runners at the North Wales course.

Racing comes under starters orders at 1.30pm with the combined Members race, and is set to conclude at 4.55pm with the Restricted contest.

Clerk of the course Ed Gretton lists the going as Good with Good to Soft patches on Sunday March 25th th 2007.

Admission to this popular Welsh course is only £20 per car, regardless of the number of passengers , which represents good value for money, for single occupancy there will be a reduction of £5.

The feature race on the card is the Volkswagen Touareg Men's Open, the first two horses passed the judge qualify for the £10,000 Volkswagen Touareg Hunt Chase Final at Towcester on Monday May 14 th 2007, there is also a bonus of £5,000 to the winning owner if their horse has finished first or second past the jam stick in a Volkswagen Touareg Men's Open qualifier. Heading the 22 entries is the classy Ballylusky from the Sheila Crow yard, the Lord Americo gelding has won his last three races, at Welbeck he beat the useful pointer True Friday by three lengths hard held. Hermes 111 trained by David Easterby for Lord Daresbury, was a very useful hunter chaser on his day, he still retains his form as he proved when beating Mile High City by 6 lengths at Dalton Park. Easterby also has Kadarann ,the former top class chaser under rules declared for the race. Other runners declared with solid chances are An Capal Dubh, Cornish Gale, Go For Bust and Lord Bush, a cracking race in prospect

The Flint & Denbigh hunt is steeped in tradition and history. In 1896 they held a point to point meeting at Brynffynon, Rhyddlan on a Tuesday afternoon, which featured just three races. The first was a welterweight race over three and a half miles, which was won by Mr C C Alletson's Tangible. The next race was a match, oddly enough both horses were called Nancy. This race was over two miles and Henry Robert's Nancy finished ahead of Percy Haywoods mare of the same name.

However the episode which caused the most excitement and controversy came in the final race on the card the Lightweight contest, which was won by Owen J Williams' Nimrod and ridden by Robert Wynn. A horse called Emerald had an horrific fall in the race and broke his neck. But on the advice of Professor Williams of Edinburgh who happened to be attending the meeting, the horse was not put down. Professor Williams was regarded as the most eminent veterinary surgeon of his day, especially in equine matters. Despite extensive research on my part, I cannot find any proof that Williams managed to save the poor beast.

If you require a car pass, could you please write to the Flint & Denbigh Hunt secretary-Brian Shone Esq, Ty Isa,Caerwys, Nr Mold, Flintshire CH7 5BQ Tel 01352 720595

If you require any further information or any problems, I can be contacted on tel/fax 0151 920 3700 mobile 07939 201 608 email snowy.shone@ btopenworld.com Arthur Shone N.W Area Press Officer.

The Flint & Denbigh Hunt would like to invite the press and photographers to join them for refreshments in their farmers bar during the afternoon. The Press Room on the racecourse will also be available for the media to use during the meeting

PREVIOUS PRESS RELEASE: GREAT FAMILY FUNDAY PLANNED FOR FLINT & DENBIGH POINT-TO-POINT AT BANGOR-ON-DEE RACECOURSE

A great Family Funday is planned for the next Flint & Denbigh Point to Point Races at Bangor on Dee Racecourse on Sunday 1st April.

This year the day will again provide fun for all the family and the serious racegoer alike. A full card of races will be run throughout the afternoon starting at 1.30pm and there will be a dedicated family funday area with attractions such as bouncy castles, carousels and trade stands for all the family to enjoy.

Ed Gretton, Clerk of the Course at Bangor on Dee, said, " "The course has recovered from the last meeting well and has been leveled and back-filled. Before the 1st April, the course will be verti-drained and have an application of spring fertilizer mix. As the meeting approaches, we will be ready to water if necessary to provide safe racing ground and the bends have already been moved out over the worn ground."

Carter Jonas - a national firm of Chartered Surveyors and Property Consultants - are also delighted to announce their sponsorship of this Point-to-Point, their first foray into race sponsorship. With 18 offices in England and Wales and an increasingly diverse range of clients, they are able to offer expertise in a wide range of property matters. In Shrewsbury there are specialist divisions for Rural Asset Management, Planning & Development, Minerals & Waste Management and CAD Mapping.

Additional Details:

• Admission: £20.00 per car/ £15 single occupancy. £6.00 per pedestrian

• For going or overnight stabling enquiries, please phone Ed Gretton on 07855 807718.

• Special concessions will be made for coaches booked in advance, please contact Bangor on Dee Racecourse on 01978 780323

PRESS ENQUIRES:

Contact: Ellie Harper - ellie@kizmitcomms.co.uk
Tel Nos. 01824 790790/ 07977 457444

Ed Gretton - egretton@chester-races.com Tel No. 07855 807718

Cheshire Hunt Preview - 25 Mar

THE CHESHIRE HUNT STAGE A GOOD COMPETITIVE DAYS RACING AT ALPRAHAM, NR TARPORLEY THIS SUNDAY MARCH 25TH 2007

The Cheshire Hunt have attracted 155 entries, for their fixture between the flags at Alpraham, Nr Tarporley this Sunday March 25th 2007, which is an increase of 4% on their corresponding meeting last year.

Racing comes under starters orders at 2.00pm and is set to conclude at 5.40pm with the Open Maiden race over two and a half miles.

Clerk of the course Hugh Houlbrooke lists the ground as Good with Soft patches on Monday March 19 th 2007.

Admission to this popular Cheshire course is only £20 per car, regardless of the number of passengers , which represents good value for money. There is also a reduction of £5 for single occupancy

The feature race on the card is the Volkswagen Touareg Men's Open, the first two horses passed the judge qualify for the £10,000 Volkswagen Touareg Hunt Chase Final at Towcester on Monday May 14 th 2007, there is also a bonus of £5,000 to the winning owner if their horse has finished first or second past the jam stick in a Volkswagen Touareg Men's Open qualifier. Heading the 24 entries is the Gary Hamner trained Tinarana Lord, who beat the dual Bangor Final winner No Retreat in the Hugh Peel Hunter chase at Bangor on Dee earlier in the month. Von Origny, the former top class hurdler under rules who is trained at Malpas by Steve Wynne, would definitely had won at the Wynnstay meeting at Bangor if he had not fallen two out, and is one to consider. Others to note include Rebel Army and Whistling Straights, a good race in prospect

There will also be a parade of the Cheshire hounds between the second and third races, this event is very popular with the younger generation, who love to go into the parade ring and mingle with the hounds.

If you require a car pass, could you please write to the Cheshire Hunt secretary- Mrs Mandy Shore, Crumleigh Heath Farm, Cogshall Lane, Little Leigh, Cheshire CW8 4RL Tel/fax 01606 891381 mobile 07831 443663

If you require any further information or any problems, I can be contacted on tel/fax 0151 920 3700 mobile 07939 201608 Email snowy.shone@ btopenworld.com Arthur Shone N.W Area Press Officer.

The Cheshire Hunt would like to invite the press and photographers to join them for refreshments in their hospitality marquee during the afternoon.

Tanatside Hunt Preview - 11 Mar

THE TANATSIDE HUNT ATTRACT A RECORD ENTRY OF 281 FOR THEIR MEETING AT EYTON ON SEVERN THIS SUNDAY MARCH 11TH 2007

The Tanatside Hunt have attracted a record entry of 281 for their meeting at Eyton on Severn this Sunday March 11th 2007, which is an increase of 2% on the corresponding meeting last season. Because of the high number of runners declared the Restricted has been divided and the Open Maiden race has been divided into three divisions , making a total of 10 races on the day.

Racing comes under starters orders at 12noon and is set to conclude at 4.30pm, the Tanatside Hunt have decided to revert to half an hour between each race, instead of their usual format of 35 minute intervals .

Clerk Of the course John Beddoes lists the going as soft on Sunday March 4 th 2007.

The first horse past the judge in the Men's Open is eligible for the £10,000 Volkswagon Touareg Men's Point-To-Point Championship Hunter Chase Final at Towcester on Monday May 14 th 2007. Heading the entries is the Sheila Crow trained Ballylusky, a winner at Cottenham and Kings Blount this season. In his latter race the Lord Americo gelding never came off the bit when beating Latzod'alm by 15 lengths three weeks ago, that form was rock solid as the runner up had won last seasons Hiscox Intermediate Final at Cheltenham. The Maz Scudamore trained Un Jour A Vassy won 5 races last season, but was soundly beaten into 4 th by Ballylusky at Cottenham. Lough Ennel, trained by Nick Sheppard was a winner of two races last season , he also found Ballylusky too good for him at Howick last season. Saint Reverien has been a model of consistency for the in form trainer Andy Hobbs and will be the principal danger for Ballylusky.

If you require a car pass could you please write to the Tanatside Hunt secretary- Ian Anderson Esq, Ty Canol, Guilsfield, Welshpool, Powys SY21 9PS Tel 01938 590509 Fax 01938 590545

If you require any further information or any problems, I can be contacted on tel/fax 0151 920 3700 mobile 07939 201608 email snowy.shone@btopenworld.com Arthur Shone N.W Area Press Officer.

The Tanatside Hunt would like to invite the press and photographers to join them for refreshments in their hospitality marquee during the afternoon.

February

Sir Watkin Williams Wynn's Preview - 25 Feb

THE SIR W.W. WYNN HUNT STAGE A GOOD COMPETITIVE DAYS RACING AT BANGOR ON DEE THIS SUNDAY FEBRUARY 25TH 2007

The Sir W.W. Wynn Hunt have attracted 205 entries for their fixture between the flags this Sunday February 25 th 2007at Bangor on Dee, which is an increase of 33% on the corresponding meeting last year, because of the large number of entries declared the Open Maiden has been divided, making a total of 8 races on the afternoon. There is also a possibility that the Restricted with an entry of 36, may also have to be split on the day as well.

Racing comes under starters orders at 12noon and is set to conclude at 4.00pm.

Admission to the North Wales course is only £20 per car, regardless of the number of passengers, which represents excellent value for money. Premier reserved car parking is also available at a cost of £30 per car, these limited car spaces can be booked from Edward Matson on 01978 664966 or from Eric Windsor, who commentates on most of the point to point meetings in this area, his number is 01948 663454.

Clerk of the course Ed Gretton lists the going as Good to Soft on Sunday February 18 th 2007

The feature race on the card is the Hiscox Intermediate, the first four horses past the judge qualify for the £7,000 Hiscox Intermediate Championship Final at Cheltenham on Wednesday May 2 nd 2007. This contest has attracted some very high quality runners. Among the entries is the progressive Andy Hobbs trained Coppingers Court, who never came off the bit when beating Port Salon at Weston Park by 7 lengths last month. Crested Penguin, who hails from the Dick Baimbridge school of excellence won a Restricted and a Members race last season and is one for the short list. Go Classic from the Pam Sykes yard won an above average Restricted at Eyton on Severn last season and is another to consider. Others to note with decent form include Marie De Beaulieu, Fresh Love, Classic Tilly and Whistling Straights, a cracking race in prospect.

Another one of the feature races on the card is the Men's Open, the first horse past the judge is eligible to run in the £10,000 Volkswagaon Touareg championship final at Towcester on Monday May 14 th 2007. Richard Burton, the national and area champion rider has the choice of riding five horses in the race, they are Ballylusky, Cornish Gale, Darnil, Go For Bust, or Infrasonique, which ever mount he chooses is bound to be a tip in itself. One interesting entry is Von Originy, the former top class chaser under rules, who was rated 128 when trained by Henry Daly, he now trained locally at Malpas by Steve Wynne. .

Bangor on Dee is the newest point to point course in the North Western area, the course was constructed in 2005 by the clerk of the course Ed Gretton and his ground staff, Gretton is also the clerk of the course under rules for both Bangor on Dee and Chester. The new right handed track was used for the first time last season by the Wynnstay and the Flint & Denbigh Hunts, both meetings in 2006 and the venue were hailed as a great success by Roger Everall, the point-to-point chairman of the North Western area.

If you require a car pass , could you please contact the Wynnstay Hunt secretary-D Curran Esq, Northwood Hall, Ellesmere Shropshire SY12 ONF

Tel 01691-624898

If you require any further information or any problems , I can be contacted on tel/fax 0151 920 3700 mobile 07939-201608 email snowy.shone@btopenworld.com Arthur Shone N.W. Area Press Officer

The Wynnstay Hunt would like to invite the press and photographers to join them for refreshments in their sponsors marquee during the afternoon. The press room at Bangor on Dee will also be open for use by the media for the duration of racing.

GINGER MCCAIN PREPARES FULL TEAM FOR WYNNSTAY POINT TO POINT AT BANGOR-ON-DEE RACECOURSE
Entries are flooding in for this year's Sir Watkin Williams Wynn's Point-to-Point races on Sunday 25th February.

Amongst the many horses entered, 4 of them will be representing Cheshire's most famous "retired" trainer, Ginger McCain, who has now swapped roles with his son, Donald at their Cholmondeley base. Whilst Donald is now set up training the horses for professional racing, Ginger likes to watch over proceedings whilst keeping his eye in on the pointing circuit. Of the 4 intended runners, Ginger expects both Cornish Gale and The Eens, both seasoned campaigners, to run well.

Ed Gretton, Clerk of the Course at Bangor on Dee, said, "With the course improving so much from last year, we are looking forward to welcoming plenty of runners. The going is currently Good to Soft, Good in places and the weather forecast is fairly kind between now and then."

Carter Jonas - a national firm of Chartered Surveyors and Property Consultants - are also delighted to announce their sponsorship of both Point-to-Point meetings, their first foray into race sponsorship. With 18 offices in England and Wales and an increasingly diverse range of clients, they are able to offer expertise in a wide range of property matters. In Shrewsbury there are specialist divisions for Rural Asset Management, Planning & Development, Minerals & Waste Management and CAD Mapping.

Additional Details:

• For going or overnight stabling enquiries, please phone Ed Gretton on 07855 807718.

• Special concessions will be made for coaches booked in advance, please contact Bangor on Dee Racecourse on 01978 780323

PRESS ENQUIRES - Contact:

Ellie Harper - ellie@kizmitcomms.co.uk - 01824 790790/ 07977 457444

Ed Gretton - egretton@chester-races.com - 07855 807718

ALL GO FOR THIS YEAR'S RUNNING OF THE BANGOR-ON-DEE POINT TO POINT RACES
Work is well underway for this year's running of both the Sir Watkin Williams Wynn's Point-to-Point races on Sunday 25 th February and The Flint & Denbigh Hunt Point-to-Point races on Sunday 1 st April 2007 at Bangor on Dee Racecourse.

Last year's first hosting of both Point to Point's at Bangor on Dee Racecourse, on the specifically developed track, was a great success with over 2,500 people in attendance at each meeting. This year the racecourse will once again open all its normal facilities making the day a real occasion not only for owners, trainers and jockeys but also for all racegoers and their families.

Ed Gretton, Clerk of the Course at Bangor on Dee is pleased with the way the track has improved further since its first ever running last year. With another year under the course's belt, the grass sward has improved since last spring. The course has been regularly verti-drained during the year to better prepare the racing surface and two fences have also been refurbished.

In addition, at The Flint & Denbigh meeting a 2-½ mile maiden race will be run for the first time.

Additional Details:

• As last year a number of Priority Parking Spaces will be available when booked in advance, providing excellent viewing of the course. Spaces will be available at a cost of £30.00 per car. Please call either Edward Matson on 01978 664966 or Eric Windsor on 01948 663454.

• Overnight stabling can be arranged by prior arrangement with Bangor on Dee Racecourse Tel: 01978 780323

• Special concessions will be made for coaches booked in advance, please contact Bangor on Dee Racecourse on 01978 780323

PRESS ENQUIRES - Contact:
Ellie Harper at ellie@kizmitcomms.co.uk or 01824 790790/ 07977 457444

Meynell & South Staffs Preview - 11 Feb

THE MEYNELL & SOUTH STAFFS STAGE AN EXCELLENT DAYS RACING BETWEEN THE FLAGS AT WESTON PARK THIS SUNDAY FEBRUARY 11 TH 2007

The Meynell & South Staffs fixture at Weston Park this Sunday has attracted a bumper entry of 151, which is an increase of 41% on the corresponding meeting last season, because of the high number of runners declared the Open Maiden has been divided, making a total of 8 races on the day

Racing comes under starters at 12noon with the Members race, this is a contest that the clerk of the course Richard Froggatt likes to win, and he will be represented for the second year running by Ridware George, who finished second in last years race to Young Tomo. The winner provided Derbyshire trainer Carly Goodall with her first winner in the plate, and she went on to become the champion novice rider in the North Western Area last season.

Clerk of the course Richard Froggatt lists the going as Good on Sunday February 4 th 2007. Speaking earlier this morning, he said, "I am very pleased with the course, it has dried out well since the last meeting a fortnight ago. We have just pushed the fences in a bit, so that the horses will race on mainly fresh ground this Sunday."

Admission to this popular Shropshire course is only £25 per car, regardless of the number of passengers, which represents excellent value for money

The first two horses past the judge in the Volkswagon Touareg Men's Open, will qualify for the £10,000 Volkswagon Touareg Point-to-Point Championship Hunter Chase Final at Towcester on Monday May 14 th 2007. It would be difficult to imagine a better Men's Open contest in this neck of the woods during our season. Heading this quality entry is the Maz Scudomore trained Un Jour A Vassy, a winner of 5 races last season. One of the few horses to beat him last season was the Andy Hobbs trained Saint Reverien, who beat him at Maisemore, a course that he seems to specialize winning there three times to date. Also in the line up is the Sheila Crow trained Darnil, who has been the champion horse in the area for the two seasons, the Grand Plaisir gelding needed the race behind Abbey Days at this course a fortnight ago, he will be a much different opponent this Sunday. Others to note include Galway and Salassie in what looks a race to savour.

Also on the card is the Hiscox Intermediate race, the first four horses past the jam stick, will qualify for the £7,000 Hiscox Intermediate Point-to-Point Championship Final at Cheltenham on Wednesday May 2 nd 2007. It is worth reflecting that last years Hiscox Final was won by Latzod' Alm, which was trained in the North Western Area by John Groucott , the Passing Sale gelding will be trained this season by Lisa Willis, as her partner Groucott will be training under rules in 2007. Heading the entries is the Andy Hobbs' trained Coppinger's Court who was a very impressive winner at the course a fortnight ago beating Port Salon readily by 7 lengths. Local trainer Paul Jones from Pattingham has a good strike rate at his local track, and his charge Anshampshire is a progressive mare ,as she proved when winning an above average contest at Sandon last season. The Katie Baimbridge trained Maire De Beaulieu is another horse with proven form, a cracking race in prospect.

If you require a car pass can you please write to the Meynell & South Staffs Hunt secretary-Major Charles Moore, Glebe House, Osmaston, Ashbourne, Derbyshire DE6 1LW. Tel 01335 345988/Fax 01335 348426 mob 07764 255500 email cmoore@northernracing.co.uk .

The Meynell & South Staffs Hunt would like to invite the press and photographers to join them for refreshments in their hospitality marquee during the afternoon. Could all members of the press and photographers pick up a badge for the hospitality marquee from the secretary's tent.

If you require any further information or any problems, I can be contacted on tel/fax 0151 920 3700 mobile 07939 201608 email snowy.shone@btopenworld.com Arthur Shone N.W. Area Press Officer

January

Albrighton - 21 Jan

First race of the Area for the 2007 Season, opens with Albrighton at Weston Park on 21 January 2007.

PERSISTENT RAIN AT WESTON PARK HAS FORCED NEW COURSE CHANGES AT THE POPULAR SHROPSHIRE COURSE AHEAD OF THE ALBRIGTON MEETING THIS SUNDAY JANUARY 21ST 2007, WHICH IS THE OPENING MEETING OF THE 2007 SEASON BETWEEN THE FLAGS IN THE NORTH WESTERN AREA

The Albrighton Hunt have been forced to make significant changes to the layout of the Weston Park course ahead of their meeting this Sunday January 21st , which will open the new 2007 season between the flags in the North Western Area.

Nick Bostock, the North Western Area secretary highlighted the reasons for the alterations to the track at Weston Park. Speaking today( Sunday January 14 th 2007). He said, "Due to the unfavourable wet period of weather we are experiencing at the moment, it has been decided to modify the newly constructed course at Weston Park in order to provide the best racing surface for next Sundays' Albrighton fixture on Sunday January 21 st , and also to provide the best possible ground for the Meynell & South Staffs fixture three weeks later on Sunday February 11th 2007. This has necessitated in not making use of the newly laid field away from the viewing area. Instead the traditional parkland course will be utilised as in the past, this will provide a better galloping layout on more constant ground on the old turf."

The area secretary's comments were echoed by Martin Kemp, the clerk of the course for the Albrighton Hunt. He said, "I agree entirely with Nick (Bostock), he has summed up the changes perfectly. The ground we will race on this coming Sunday would have been raceable yesterday(Saturday January 13 th 2007). We will be siting two new uphill fences on the home straight, which will make for a more exciting finish for our racegoers. The going at present(14-01-07) is good to soft."

Entries for the above fixture will finish at 12noon tomorrow Monday January 15 th 2007.

Racing comes under starters at 12noon and is set to conclude at 3.00pm with the Members race.

We recommend that you apply for your Point to Point Membership NOW. Click here for details on our Point to Point Membership - don't delay apply today!

OBTAINING ENTRIES AND RESULTS

The Entries and Results are available to our Members as soon as they become available - Results on Saturdays and Sundays and Entries which this year close at lunchtime on Mondays, the same afternoon - but can only be seen by non-members from the following Friday. It is therefore highly advantageous to have this prior access via Membership.

In addition, there is a Form Guide available to Members only, giving 1st, 2nd, 3rd placings for all horses covering the current season and results from 2002 onwards. This is exclusive to Members and cannot be viewed by the general public.

As the Season starts early this year, we recommend that you apply for your Point to Point Membership NOW! Click here for details on our Point to Point Membership - don't delay apply today!

2007 Fixture List

Coming Soon !