Fresh faces in the North

RIPON yesterday hosted the North of England's first Sunday race meeting with betting. A total 9,000 paying customers were at the North Yorkshire track - plus an estimated 1,500 children as families enjoyed the historic day.

James Hutchinson, the clerk of the course, said: "I'm slightly disappointed not to reach my target figure of 10,000 but the great thing about today was the very good atmosphere.

"People seemed to enjoy themselves and there was good racing with plenty of close and exciting finishes."

Jack Berry, one of the north's leading trainers, added: "Sunday racing has got to be good. It is bringing a lot of fresh faces to the races and I hope they will become regular racegoers.''

Luca Cumani, a leading trainer from Newmarket, paid a rare visit to Ripon and saddled two winners, including Muferr, the only winning favourite of the day.

At Newbury, punters had more success with six of the seven favourites getting their heads in front. The Berkshire track attracted a total of 10,777 paying customers.