These cookies are required for the operation of the site and cannot be managed We use Google Analytics to track page visits through the site the route someone took through the site and an approximate location for the user This cookie helps us to understand a user's route through the site This does not record any personal details or monitor anything you type in our forms Families are being invited to a series of activities at the county’s libraries to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day Victory in Europe Day on Thursday 8 May, marks 80 years since the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany a moment of relief and celebration across Britain and Allied nations exhibits and even a flypast of a Lancaster bomber Taking place at Cannock library on Wednesday 30 April ‘A Family at War’ is a fascinating free talk about WWII and VE Day by Andrew Lound  The talk will run from 2pm to 4pm and tells the story of the Waite family and their experiences during the war At Uttoxeter Library from Wednesday 7 May to Saturday 10 May people can join free watercolour art sessions or brush up on their creative writing at special workshops  The volunteers who look after the garden at the library also have a VE Day theme for the Britain in Bloom judging Visitors to Perton library on Saturday 10 May can see a flypast of Lancaster B1 PA474.  The bomber part of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight is one of the only two remaining airworthy Lancaster Bombers out of the 7,377 that were built Libraries and Arts Manager at Staffordshire County Council “It’s great that our libraries are joining in the celebrations with a whole host of family activities and entertainment “This is a significant anniversary that marks the end of World War II in Europe and an opportunity to remember the courage of those who fought and died for our freedom  I do hope people are able to visit their local library and join in the celebrations.” At Burton Library on Tuesday 6 May from 1pm to 4pm people are invited to a free VE Day themed tea party.  Then on Saturday 10 May families are invited to a free arts and crats session from 10am to 11.30am on Wednesday 7 May 10am-12pm and Newcastle Library crafts and other activities such as quizzes and music At Stone Library on Thursday 8 May at 2.30pm people can join the ‘Make Do and Mend’ talk from Kath Reynolds.  She will be delivering a talk on life during the Second World War including a discussion on eating chitterlings and even how to use a bit of beetroot to enhance lipstick  The event is free but booking is required People are being invited to share photos of their celebrations on the VE and VJ Day webpage and across social media using the #VE80 hashtag Further details are available on the libraries plans for VE Day celebrations webpage or on their social media pages These contact details are for journalists and members of the media only: Email: pressoffice@staffordshire.gov.ukCall: 01785 895050 If you are not a journalist or member of the media and have a general enquiry please: Email: contactus@staffordshire.gov.ukCall: 0300 111 8000 and are determined to surpass last season’s Grange Hill Farm tally of 72 winners who has won a host of major races during his career including the Grand National with Earth Summit (1998) and Bindaree (2002) and the Gold Cup courtesy of Imperial Commander (2010) Willy is much better at chatting with people and attracting new owners than I am We work well together and are looking forward to the new season.” who partnered more than 200 winners during his career in the saddle has been assistant trainer to his father in recent years Hopefully the joint-licence is a signal we can push things forward Dad and I have worked closely together over the last four or five years and I've learned loads working with him “We’ve never had an argument and are in complete unison If we can put it all together I’m sure we can have a great season.” Guard Your Dreams will be partnered by Willy's older brother Sam Twiston-Davies who has just completed an excellent season to finish fourth to Sean Bowen in the jockeys’ championship with 109 winners Willy Twiston-Davies said: “Sam could have gone and ridden at Punchestown but he wanted to partner Guard Your Dreams The horse won an International Hurdle at Cheltenham as a five-year-old and is in very good form and we’re hopeful he can run a nice race.” Confirmed runners and riders for the 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket  Confirmed runners and riders for the 1,000 Guineas at Newmarket  Published on 2 May 2025inBritain Copyright © 2025 Spotlight Sports Group Limited or its licensors or Victory in Europe Day on Thursday 8 May marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe Sarah English from the Staffordshire History Centre talks about some VE Day celebration photos from Staffordshire in 1945 The day celebrates the formal acceptance by the Allies of Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender in 1945.  It's a day of celebration and remembrance a cul-de-sac off Buxton Road in Leek celebrating the day eighty years ago.  Adults and children also celebrate around a table for a VE Day party in Sandon Road Hockley Road and Stafford Road are pictured in a large group photo at another celebration party workers in the meter shop at English Electric Co. Stafford can be seen with flags ready to celebrate VE Day. Here women employees were involved in the production of vitally important precision instruments to assist with the war effort The images, which capture the mood of the nation at the time, are being shared by the Staffordshire History Centre as part of the commemorations.  In addition to sharing the photos, a pop-up event will also take place at the centre from 10.30am to 1pm on 8 May.  Further details are available at VE Day 80 at the Staffordshire History Centre - Staffordshire History Head of Archives and Heritage at Staffordshire County Council said: “VE Day signified the end of the Second World War in Europe bringing six years of bitter fighting to a close.  “We’re incredibly lucky to have such a fascinating collection of photos which help lift the lid on what life was like at the time. These photos capture how Staffordshire people marked the end of the war in 1945.   “People can  view the collection of photographs for free, along with thousands of other images relating to the county’s history on the Staffordshire Past Track website.  We’re also hosting a pop-up event at our new centre on VE Day itself then this is the perfect time to do so.” People are also being invited to share their own photos and pictures of activity on the VE and VJ Day webpage and across social media using the #VE80 hashtag Lord-Lieutenant of Staffordshire is also inviting people to join the celebrations and said: “VE Day is an incredibly important anniversary and we want to bring our communities together to celebrate businesses and organisations to get into the community spirit by either putting on their own events or taking part in the national celebrations.  I do hope people can take some time to celebrate with us.” We use some essential cookies to make this website work We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use wmas.nhs.uk remember your settings and improve our services We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services Claire Brown – Friday 29th November 2024 – 9.00am who volunteers her spare time to help save lives in her local community has installed the 10th defibrillator in Uttoxeter has volunteered for West Midland Ambulance Service for three years and recently installed a publicly accessible defibrillator in Bramshall Road Park can be accessed by anyone when they call 999 for an ambulance if someone nearby is in cardiac arrest approved by East Staffordshire Borough Council was fundraised by Mary through charity raffles and with support from Uttoxeter Lions Club Uttoxeter Knights and other local charities and businesses in the town which she’s formed close relationships with over the years Mary said: “This new defibrillator marks the 10th one that I’ve fundraised for purchased and then installed in the town which is great for the community of Uttoxeter The box also has a Bleed Control Kit inside too There’s another one in the pipeline in the coming weeks too I’m proud to say that Uttoxeter is one of the best covered towns for defibrillators in Staffordshire As well as fundraising for life-saving devices Mary visits schools regularly in the town to teach CPR to children in year 3 and 4 push to install defibrillators and train CPR is because I love helping people There are a lot more people these days having cardiac arrests The more defibrillators that are available to the public and the more people that are trained in CPR the better chances of surviving a cardiac arrest.” The new defibrillator at Bramshall Road Park went live with The Circuit the national defibrillator network by the British Heart Foundation on the 22nd October and on the 24th October it was accessed during a 999 call to help a patient Copyright © 2025 West Midlands Ambulance Service University NHS Foundation Trust Lovingly crafted by Mixd Welcome to IPE Real Assets. This site uses cookies. Read our policy By 2024-12-23T10:38:00+00:00 UK logistics specialist Indurent has secured planning approval to deliver 385,000 ft2 (35,750 m2) of modern sustainable industrial and logistics space across two units in Uttoxeter comprising 300,000 ft2 and 85,000 ft2 respectively as part of the wider 127-acre mixed-use Uttoxeter SUE scheme Each unit will target a minimum of BREEAM Excellent and EPC A or A+ rating Each building will provide high-specification office space alongside an adaptable industrial floorplate which received outline planning consent in 2022 will deliver 4.6 hectares of employment space alongside up to 162 new homes and new landscaped areas for local residents and workers Indurent Park Uttoxeter is expected to create 580 new full-time jobs once complete as well as 160 construction roles during the development process Indurent Park Uttoxeter is located adjacent to the A50 and A522 providing a direct road connection to the northern bypass which is situated between Stoke-on-Trent and Derby and offering customers access to transport connections to the wider Midlands and north west of England commented: ‘Indurent Park Uttoxeter will provide a significant boost to Staffordshire’s economy through the creation of over 700 jobs across a range of employment types in the construction and operational phases modern and sustainable workspaces suitable for businesses across industrial and distribution industries as well as high-growth sectors that are expanding in the West Midlands The latest planning consent forms part of Indurent’s ambitious growth plans with the company targeting portfolio growth through acquisitions and more than 2 million ft2 of development per year from its c27 million ft2 consented landbank Copyright © 1997–2025 IPE International Publishers Limited Site powered by Webvision Cloud Star Sports (licence number 009177) is licensed and regulated by the Gambling Commission After another sensational week at the Cheltenham Festival racing continues for us as we send a whole party of runners to both Uttoxeter and Kempton Mr Vango attempts to bring up a lucrative handicap hat-trick in the Midlands Grand National at Uttoxeter on Saturday The nine-year-old landed the London National before scooting to glory in the Peter Marsh and has only been hit with a 3lbs hike in the ratings for that success although he has to lug top weight over the marathon 4m2f trip Knockanore has already proved he can handle extreme distances when romping to a 16l success in the Eider at Newcastle last time out but he is up 10lbs in the handicap for that success Apple Away hasn’t quite lived up to the promise of her novice hurdling campaign but was an encouraging second in the Grand National Trial last month Welsh Grand National winner Val Dancer was third in the Haydock test and enjoys a huge swing at the weights with Lucinda Russell’s mare The latest Midlands Grand National odds are on the Paddy Power website and Paddy Power app otherwise Timeform’s guide to the runners as well as betting tips from the racing boffins can be found below Timeform: This is wide open but KNOCKANORE proved a revelation on his first go over a marathon trip when routing his field in Newcastle’s Eider Chase and with ground conditions again likely to be far from testing he can follow up with talented claimer Freddie Mitchell once more taking off 5 lb The admirable Mr Vango is feared most in his hat-trick bid Apple Away and Val Dancer all seem sure to have a say too Invincible Nao completes the shortlist in a cracking Midlands National *All prices are bang up to date with our snazzy widgets while odds in copy are accurate at time of publishing but subject to change The following horses have been declared for the Midlands Grand National 2025 Trainer: Sara Bradstock Jockey: Jack Tudor Age: 9 Weight: 12st 0lbs Has quickly made up into a smart chaser and followed up a winning return at Sandown (3m4f) with a game success in Peter Marsh at Haydock in January Up another 3 lb but this really likeable type is a likely player in his hat-trick bid Trainer: Lucinda Russell Jockey: Derek Fox Age: 8 Weight: 11st 10lbs Yet to score this season but she is knocking on the door and came in a clear second of 9 in Grand National Trial at Haydock four weeks ago This longer trip promises to suit so big shout off just a 1lb higher mark Trainer: Dan Skelton Jockey: Harry Skelton Age: 9 Weight: 11st 8lbs Listed/Graded winner who showed she can also be competitive in staying handicaps when second in the Classic Chase at Warwick (29f) early last year O’Neill Jockey: Richie McLernon Age: 9 Weight: 11st 7lbs Useful handicapper but winless since 2022 and he failed to build on his reappearance Carlisle third when pulled up in Welsh National at Chepstow O’Neill Jockey: Jonjo O’Neill Jr Made a promising start in this sphere when third at Sandown but hasn’t gone on in two subsequent starts a fading fourth of six in 23f Newbury handicap last month Takes a big step up in trip now and others appeal more Trainer: Venetia Williams Jockey: Charlie Deutsch Age: 7 Weight: 11st 5lbs scoring at Market Rasen (3m) then following up impressively at Carlisle (3m) last month This demands more but he’s a major player with better still to come now tackling a marathon trip for the first time Trainer: Mel Rowley Jockey: Charlie Hammond Age: 8 Weight: 11st 3lbs Much improved for fitting of cheekpieces and took his form to a new level when winning Welsh National at Chepstow in December Ran another cracker off 12 lb higher (6 lb out of the handicap) when third in Haydock’s Grand National Trial since and this likeable sort must enter calculations Trainer: Alan King Jockey: Tom Cannon Age: 8 Weight: 11st 3lbs Dual chase winner at up to 3m last season and added Haydock’s Tommy Whittle in December when fell last in Eider at Newcastle since No easy ride but he could have a part to play off the same mark Trainer: Gordon Elliott Jockey: Danny Gilligan Age: 9 Weight: 11st 3lbs Irish raider landed Grand National Trial at Punchestown last February Hasn’t come close to that form since though looking increasingly temperamental and he fell in last month’s repeat bid Trainer: Gordon Elliott Jockey: Jake Coen Age: 8 Weight: 11st 1lbs Irish challenger left his previous chasing efforts behind when bagging 17-runner handicap chase at Punchestown (27f) 23 days ago Likely to do better still stepping up in trip Trainer: Brian Ellison Jockey: Henry Brooke Age: 10 Weight: 11st 1lbs A big improver for current stable after wind surgery last term completing the four-timer in Newcastle’s Eider Caught the eye when fourth of 14 in Edinburgh National at Musselburgh last time so he’s very much one to consider eased 1 lb Trainer: Ryan Potter Jockey: Freddie Mitchell Age: 8 Weight: 10st 12lbs Opened his chase account over 2m4f here in December and took his form up a couple of notches when a wide-margin winner of Newcastle’s Eider three weeks ago Hiked up 10 lb but not taken lightly with talented 5 lb claimer Freddie Mitchell again up Trainer: Jamie Snowden Jockey: Gavin Sheehan Age: 8 Weight: 10st 11lbs Yet to score this season but this reliable sort has been placed on all five runs a solid third of 17 to Knockanore in Eider at Newcastle 21 days ago Trainer: Paul Nicholls Jockey: Harry Cobden Age: 7 Weight: 10st 11lbs Resumed winning ways in 3m1f handicap at Wincanton on Boxing Day and backed it up with a good second of 6 there following month when fitted with cheekpieces This consistent can make his presence felt if his stamina holds out Trainer: John McConnell Jockey: Callum Pritchard Age: 8 Weight: 10st 9lbs Irish challenger is on a losing run but he posted a good second in the Edinburgh National at Musselburgh in February before unseating 18th in Eider at Newcastle three weeks ago Trainer: Emma Lavelle Jockey: James Best Age: 9 Weight: 10st 9lbs Bagged Warwick’s Classic Chase last season but he’s been pulled up in three of his four runs this term latest when tried in cheekpieces at Wincanton in January Trainer: Gary & Josh Moore Jockey: Caoilin Quinn Age: 7 Weight: 10st 8lbs On the up since the hood went on and bids for a hat-trick after a pair of handicap wins at Plumpton getting up late on latter occasion over 28.5f No forlorn hope on his first go over a marathon distance PPB Counterparty Services Ltd is licensed and regulated by the Malta Gaming Authority. For customers in the UK, PPB Counterparty Services Ltd is licensed and regulated by the Gambling Commission The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers If you click links to other sites on this page Top tipster Sam Turner brings us his best bets for Saturday’s racing focusing on the cards at Uttoxeter and Kempton there is barely time for racing fans to draw breath as the Midlands Grand National at Uttoxeter provides the latest big-field handicap for backers to solve Lightly weighted contenders are often favoured on betting sites in this stamina-sapping event; however the ground doesn’t promise to be quite as deep as in previous years and that might help those at the head of the handicap Given she is a Grade 1 winner at Aintree over fences Apple Away (3pm) could still be reasonably treated by the handicapper and the assessor rated her effort in the Grand National Trial at Haydock last time as her second career-best performance She bumped into a resurgent Haydock specialist that day in Famous Bridge who was equipped with first-time cheekpieces so lost little in defeat and her yard enjoyed another brilliant raid to the Festival this week with Myretown landing a major staying prize on Tuesday Galia Des Liteaux has had a few more chances in some of the season’s leading staying events than Apple Away and, although she has a few lengths to make up on our chief selection on horse racing betting sites she sports a tongue tie for the first time which may help and we saw what a difference that made to Doddiethegreat in a warm Cheltenham handicap on Thursday she is reunited with Harry Skelton who traditionally gets a good tune from the mare who boasted the quality to finish a creditable eighth in last year’s Grand National at Aintree A mistake three from home stopped her in her tracks at Haydock but I’m hoping Skelton on the mark with the classy The New Lion earlier in the week can find an early rhythm at his fences and post a big performance Earlier on the card, Jilajone (1.50pm) looks an attractive each-way wager on betting apps now he returns to the Staffordshire venue The six-year-old did as well as he could to finish as close as he did at Ascot last time and he was a very impressive winner at this venue back in January Red Dirt Road (2.25) is going to make a terrific staying chaser in time but there are still nice prizes to pick up over hurdles and he should make a bold bid to follow up his recent Sandown win with success in the staying handicap hurdle Nicky Henderson experienced a mixed time at Cheltenham but there were some positives and victories for Timetoshine (1.37pm) and Aston Martini (2.45pm) could end the week on a high for the master of Seven Barrows The former recorded some terrific data despite a poor round of hurdling and Aston Martini posted another solid effort behind an improving hurdler of Harry Fry’s at Ascot and the cheekpieces may just enable her to find a little more improvement it’s vital to practice responsible gambling Sports betting can be addictive, so bettors should take precautions to keep themselves safe when using gambling sites Every licensed UK betting site should offer safer gambling tools self-assessment questionnaires and self-exclusion options These are free tools to help punters stay in control and they are available at various gambling sites, including online bookmakers, casino sites, slot sites, and poker sites These operators may offer punters free bets or casino bonuses from time to time but it's important to treat these rewards with caution Read the terms and conditions before accepting any bonus as most new UK casino sites will require you to place a cash bet before handing out the reward Always remember that sports betting is meant to be fun It should never be viewed as a guaranteed way to make money If you ever feel like you need help or advice on gambling addiction don’t hesitate to contact one of the charities or organisations below We may earn commission from some of the links in this article but we never allow this to influence our content This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent We aim to offer every online gambler and reader of The Independent a safe and fair platform through unbiased reviews and offers from the UK’s best online gambling companies Gambling can be addictive, always play responsibly and only bet what you can afford to lose. Gambling sites have a number of tools to assist you to stay in control, including deposit limits and time outs. If you think you have a problem, advice and support is available for you now from BeGambleAware or Gamcare. Any offers or odds listed in this article are correct at the time of publication but are subject to change. Terms & Conditions apply to all offers. A man has been charged after officers stopped a car in Rugeley Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.comand on Freeview 262 or Freely 565 Staffordshire Police have charged a man with two counts of possession with intent to supply cocaine supplying cocaine and enquiring/using/possessing criminal property Benjamin Middleton, 33, from Uttoxeter, was charged after a mobile phone, cocaine and mobile were seized from a vehicle in Rugeley at around 8.10pm on Wednesday with officers finding a total of nearly £60,000 worth of cocaine and around £11,000 in cash A Staffordshire Police spokesperson said: "Benjamin Middleton has been charged with two counts of possession with intent to supply cocaine supplying cocaine and acquiring/using/possessing criminal property "A total of nearly £60,000 worth of cocaine and around £11,000 in cash was found." Middleton is due to appear at North Staffordshire Justice Centre on Friday (April 4) XFASTINDEX JCB’s former Bamford Works site in Uttoxeter is to become a housing development Cameron Homes has submitted a detailed planning application for 118 units The proposed plans will see the whole site redeveloped to create a residential estate with a mix of one- to five-bedroom homes set across single and two storeys Cameron Homes group land director John Hickman said: “This is a momentous project for us at Cameron Homes and it is a sincere point of pride to undertake such an innovative joint partnership with JCB “Both the creative vision and meticulous design of this new development gives us confidence and excitement as we move forward in the area of Uttoxeter We aim to create a thriving community in Bamford Place offering high-quality homes and public open spaces providing a lasting legacy for the local area.” JCB chairman Anthony Bamford said: “I have taken a keen personal interest in securing the best possible legacy for the Bamford Works site since it was vacated in late 2008 I have wanted the redevelopment to be of the highest possible standard I’m pleased that we are finally at the stage of submitting a detailed planning application for 118 new homes I look forward to Cameron Homes delivering a new development that everyone is Uttoxeter can be proud of.” Got a story? Email news@theconstructionindex.co.uk 8 hours Ebbsfleet Development Corporation is undertaking early market engagement for infrastructure works. 1 day Following a recent expansion into North America, Murphy Group has now entered Australia. 7 hours Innovative tracked carrier manufacturer among 2025 King’s Award for Enterprise recipients 7 hours Modular construction business Integra Buildings has received royal recognition for its approach to sustainability. 9 hours MTX Contracts has been selected as the preferred bidder to build a diagnostic centre in Pitsea, Essex. 9 hours House-builder Springfield Properties has promoted Darren Thomson to construction director for its north of Scotland operations. © 2025 The Construction Index [Company No ' + response[i].created_nice + ' ' + response[i].description + ' has announced the sale of Smallwood Manor Hospital in Uttoxeter Built around You.Your expert business property advisers Originally designed by Robert Edis and built in 1886 this 48.66-acre estate is centred around Smallwood Manor a Grade ll listed Elizabethan-style country residence partly refurbished in 2021 to accommodate a children’s hospital and mental health centre the surrounding grounds accommodate a walled garden The estate sits in a desirable setting within East Staffordshire and accessible via a private driveway which leads to the estate The closest town is Uttoxeter which is 4.8km to the north It was previously a private school that ceased trading in 2021 and although it was partly refurbished to provide alternative care facilities it subsequently came back to the market in 2024 Following a sales process with Julie Kitson at Christie & Co, it has been purchased by the independent children’s home provider, Resicare Alliance Chief Executive Officer at Resicare Alliance “We are very pleased to have acquired such a beautiful building with such spacious ground This will enable us to continue our expansion into the SEN sector and build on our successful children's home business.” “The site will offer children an amazing open space and a building that can offer plenty of classrooms and activity space Having worked with Resicare on previous purchases I felt that this property would offer them a unique opportunity to create an SEN school and the additional buildings will allow them to have children’s homes and training facilities Smallwood Manor Hospital was sold off an asking price of £4,000,000 The sale was also supported by David Spitzer at BNI Law and Liz Roberts at gunnercooke LLP Visit Christie & Co’s Business Search page to find out more about current listings. Keep up-to-date with our latest listings and more… © Christie & Co 2024 | A member of Christie Group is on the market for £4mSpecialist business property adviser has been instructed to sell Smallwood Manor Hospital in Uttoxeter has planning permission for conversion to an eating disorder clinic and semi-secure unit The property also benefits from an Art Block which now has planning permission for a restaurant The surrounding grounds accommodate a walled garden It ceased trading as a private school and is being sold with vacant possession with an asking price of £4,000,000 “This beautiful setting is an excellent opportunity to acquire a building that has been partly refurbished to provide semi-secure accommodation for children stepping down from hospital The properties on the grounds offer children's accommodation and a long-term project to provide additional accommodation and horticultural opportunities It is certainly worth a viewing to appreciate this opportunity.” For more on this opportunity, visit: https://www.christie.com/5873287/ Punting pointers from some of today's race meetings He looked a good prospect when winning a Carlisle novice on his debut in June 2023 at the expense of Kylian (now rated 101) but he came up short in the Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot and the Gimcrack at York before being absent for 13 months Gelded after finishing down the field in the Ayr Silver Cup in September he showed good speed to sit up with the pace and travelled well for a long way at Wolverhampton before fading inside the final furlong That gives him something to build on and there is no doubt he is well handicapped off a mark of 79 if tapping back into some of that debut promise on this return to five furlongs Miss Maverick returns from 244 days off the track in a bid to defend her unbeaten Uttoxeter hurdles record in the 2m4f handicap (2.32) who chased home the useful Cherie D'Am in a course bumper stepped up considerably on her first three hurdles starts when winning a 2m maiden at this venue by nine and a half lengths She followed that with two more course successes in 2m4f novices latterly defying a double penalty when romping home 18 lengths to the good and makes her handicap debut off what looks a reasonable mark if she's fit enough to do herself justice "She likes the track and she appreciates soft ground," said trainer Gary Hanmer "She's going to go chasing this year but this looked like a nice opportunity before that "She schools really well but she's just a little bit keen and probably needs a run to tighten her up a little bit.” Kylian got the better of the argument at Newcastle in November before the form was reversed at Southwell last month but he is 1lb better off with Equilateral here despite having taken his all-weather record to three from four with success at Lingfield since said: "It's great that he is still performing at this level at the age of ten "I think a turning five at Wolverhampton will suit him as he travels nicely and after this he'll be aimed towards All-Weather Championships finals day but he ran over six at Kempton a couple of starts ago and I thought he got the trip well." Looking for free bets? Racing Post have got the best offers, all in one place. Visit racingpost.com/freebets to find out more Published on 24 January 2025inPreviews In the latest week of gripping Uttoxeter Thursday football action both the Premier League and Division 1 were alight with high-scoring games and dynamic performances 18 Carrot Goals served up a scintillating display hammering Pathetico Madrid in a ruthless 10-0 victory The striking prowess of this team was on full display their unrelenting assault on the opposition's goal demonstrating their intent for this season played a central role in this resounding triumph pulled off a stunning 5-1 victory against Class On Grass EXPECTED TOULOUSE managed to edge past Crown Rejects with a narrow 1-0 win.In Division 1 Stoke On Fent eked out a narrow 1-0 victory over DROP IT LIKE ITS SLOT in a fiercely fought encounter Not In Your Moms Forest managed to secure a 4-3 win against The Crown in a pulsating seven-goal thriller where the top scorer netted two crucial goals Bosch Boys tactically outsmarted MADELINE MILAN Inter Ur Nan edged over Goals Galore with a 3-2 win.The intense competition and high-quality football displayed by all teams underscored the excitement that has been building throughout the season With top scorers from each team stepping up the forthcoming weeks promise exhilarating football action The Uttoxeter Thursday football league continues to be a captivating spectacle for all football enthusiasts A significant gamble was landed in the final race at Uttoxeter when the Evan Williams-trained Owl Of Athens scored commandingly as the 85-40 favourite having been available at 80-1 in the morning who was a general 66-1 shot when betting opened on the race on Friday night had been beaten 277 lengths in seven previous starts but got off the mark in the 2m4f handicap hurdle when coming home eight lengths clear of Ghasham under Conor Ring Williams said: "It’ll be very interesting to know the ins and outs of it all so if that’s what people consider a gamble these days then the game is knackered "He handled the ground and he jumped for the first time in his life It wasn’t pretty but he kept plugging away It enabled him to pop away and jump better.” Williams added: "A lot of hard work goes into any race so we’re always delighted with any winner no matter where or when." The trainer was interviewed by the stewards after the race about the apparent improvement in form and his comments were forwarded to the BHA's head office Neil King believes he has an exciting prospect on his hands after Rubber Ball cruised to his first victory in division two of the 2m maiden hurdle who justified 1-2 favouritism when finishing 11 lengths clear of Ballyvango has improved on each start since joining the yard from Ireland and went two better than when third at Huntingdon this month and King is excited about what his latest winner can achieve He said: "It was a great confidence-booster for our fella and I think he'll be better suited to better ground He's going the right way and he's a big horse You have to remember he's a little bit weak in himself at the moment and he'll be better next year." "He ran a very nice race at Huntingdon but probably bumped into two smart horses in Vanderpool and George's Lad who scooted up at Doncaster on Friday." It was a second winner in as many days for King as Storming George caused a 25-1 shock on the same card as George's Lad King added: "We've been so badly out of form but Storming George is a seriously nice horse by Order Of St George and he's worked with Rubber Ball and Lookaway so I'd like to think he's got a very bright future." The Ben Pauling-trained Roysse remains a 50-1 shot for the Supreme Novices' Hurdle after bouncing back from a final-flight fall at Newbury to land division one of the 2m maiden hurdle 13-year-old 33-1 rank outsider gives trainer first winner of the season under replacement rider  'We all thought 8-1 last night was a bit skinny' - gamble landed for Nick Alexander at Ayr  Visit racingpost.com/freebets to find out more Published on 25 January 2025inReports It looks like JavaScript is not enabled in your browser It’s a quieter weekend for the yard and I’m heading up to Doncaster for three rides who hopefully all have decent chances We’ve had this race in mind for him for a while The ground doesn’t ever tend to get too bad at Doncaster He’s run well here before and we’re just popping the cheekpieces back on to change it up and keep his mind interested He’s trained well and hopefully will run a nice race She’s a classy mare on her day and she ran well last time out at Ascot in a Grade 1 She seems in good form at home but we’re hoping the rain stays away as we wouldn’t want the ground too soft for her We’re looking forward to seeing how she gets on He’s had two promising runs over fences at Carlisle and has shown he stays well He’s fit and well and looks to be in good form with a decent racing weight we’re hopeful he should find the frame and pick up some good prizemoney It’s a small field here so we thought we’d let him take his chance and if he can find the places She ran really well last week and carries top weight here but Harry Atkins is taking seven pounds off which should help She’s a tough and honest horse and looks to travel well over any trip so back to two miles here we’re hoping for another good run He was very backwards and babyish on his first run so hopefully he can step up here and show a bit more He’s one that further down the line the penny will eventually drop once he’s picked up more experience Irish point winner KINGSTON PRIDE confirmed the promise of his bumper debut when landing the odds in a similar event at Exeter in April and looks one to follow now that Nicky Henderson sends him hurdling French Symphony was placed twice in bumpers and should improve on his opening effort over hurdles when third at Fontwell and is feared most ahead of Land Afar who was runner-up on his hurdling debut at Huntingdon in March after a lengthy absence Donald McCain’s fairly useful bumper winner KABUKI has made the frame in both his runs over hurdles this term at Warwick and Sedgefield and is fancied to gain a first win in this sphere at the chief expense of form rival Woodstock City who was fairly useful on the Flat Nicky Henderson’s hurdling debutant Either Way could also have a say if settling better than she has done in a couple of bumpers especially if the market vibes are positive Fergal O’Brien’s AJP KINGDOM may well be the answer He couldn’t live with King Turgeon at Chepstow but that form looks all the better in light of the winner’s subsequent success over the National fences at Aintree There’s no doubt that this seven-year-old is on a good mark and he is marginally preferred to the consistent My Gift To You The Wrekin should come on for his recent comeback run and also merits respect while Sporting Ace needs a second look too ISABELLA BEE won at Worcester in August and shaped as if back at the top of her game before falling at Ludlow’s notoriously tricky fourth last so is worth another chance and can be another winner on the card for Fergal O’Brien Lime Drop is a solid alternative after finishing runner-up in five of her seven runs over fences while progressive hurdler Love Tree is only a four-year-old but an interesting debutant over fences A chance is taken on Neil King’s CUBAN COURT who has failed to build on his highly encouraging handicap debut second at Doncaster in four subsequent starts but is now 7 lb below the mark off which he was runner-up in that race on Town Moor Fourtowns should appreciate returning to this left-handed track after jumping markedly left at Hereford recently and he could be the main danger with Olly Murphy’s three-time course-and-distance winner ROCK ON TOMMY getting the nod In good order when last seen during the summer placed on his last two visits to the track he returns from four months off with his yard in tremendous nick and looks too well-handicapped to ignore second at Market Rasen on his latest start DRACO MALFOY has already won an Irish point and Kim Bailey’s in-form stable should have him ready for this so he’s worth a chance to make a winning start in bumpers Karonacho is an obvious one on paper given his pedigree/connections trained by Olly Murphy and a half-brother to smart French chaser Juntos Ganamos while John Barbour looks the best of those with bumper experience after his third at Huntingdon early in the season Author: Jon Cook Published: 6th February, 2025 @ 17:02Updated: 6th February, 2025 The road closure covers from Little Stoke Cricket Club towards Uttoxeter, meaning residents of Aston Lodge will still be able to access the estate. According to the One.Network website, there are in excess of 20 traffic restrictions associated with these works noting: “Temporary road closure required for highway improvement works being undertaken by Staffordshire County Council. Only one location will be closed at any one time.” From the works order, the locations – dates and times are: Dates: 10 February 08:00 – 14 February 16:00 (unless otherwise specified) Uttoxeter Road (additional closure): 13 February 09:30 – 14 February 14:30 Uttoxeter Road: 10 February 09:30 – 14 February 14:30 Butterhill Lane: 13 February 08:00 – 14 February 16:00 Dayhills: 13 February 09:30 – 14 February 14:30 As with these things, timings and dates may change depending on progress and weather. How do we get to Uttoxeter? Also how do we get to Stone ? From Fradswell? Kerry Ashdown, Local Democracy Reporter | 29th March 2025 Since 2010, A Little Bit of Stone has been providing the latest, and most up to date, news, sport, events, jobs and more for our wonderful town!  Copyright © 2010 - 2025 • A Little Bit of Stone Win HappyPremiumSearch Rayohits radiostaffordshirenewsKate to hold Christmas Carol service with community event in StaffordshireKensington Palace says the fifteen events are to recognise individuals who support those in need Kensington Palace has confirmed The Princess of Wales will host her fourth 'Together at Christmas' Carol Service at Westminster Abbey next month will recognise those who've supported people in need across the UK Fifteen events will also take place across the UK including one at St Mary's Church in Uttoxeter They will be hosted by Lord-Lieutenants and supported by the Royal Foundation the Princess of Wales wants to "celebrate the many people supporting those in need – individuals who have inspired and above all else shown that love is the greatest gift we can receive "This theme takes inspiration from the Christmas story which encourages us to consider the experiences of others and the important human need of giving and receiving empathy," a statement adds 1,600 people who have supported others in their communities will join Her Royal Highness at Westminster Abbey with Members of The Royal Family and "recognisable faces who in their own ways have shown how love can help others thrive." We're told the ceremony will combine traditional and modern elements It will be broadcast on ITV on Christmas Eve who represent the Royal Family in communities across the country They'll be held in a variety of places including Uttoxeter's St Mary's Church with more details to be announced in the coming weeks the community events will recognise those who have gone above and beyond to help others First for all the latest news from across the UK every hour on Hits Radio on DAB, at hitsradio.co.uk and on the Rayo app. Company number 01176085; Bauer Radio Limited Company number: 1394141Registered office: Media House Peterborough PE2 6EA and H Bauer Publishing Company number: LP003328; Registered office: The Lantern London NW1 2PL All registered in England and Wales VAT no 918 5617 01H Bauer Publishing are authorised and regulated for credit broking by the FCA (Ref No: 845898) Newton Tornado (1.03 Uttoxeter) The six-year-old beat subsequent winner Pierrot Jaguen by five and a half lengths at Cheltenham on New Year's Day when he was second to last season's Grade 2 Aintree mares' bumper heroine Diva Luna Newton Tornado also chased home Moon Rocket on his penultimate start and the winner went on to be runner-up in the Grade 2 River Don Novices' Hurdle The step up to 2m7½f should suit the selection as he is a 3m point-to-point winner and this looks an excellent opportunity for Brian Hughes's mount to get off the mark under rules Shakem Up'arry (3.15 Warwick) It is difficult to ignore Shakem Up'arry given that he is effectively 1lb better off than when successful in last season's Plate at the Cheltenham Festival due to Callum Pritchard's claim The 11-year-old needs to bounce back from falling on his first start in veterans' company last time but virtually all of his rivals have question marks over their chances due to trip (Le Milos and Smarty Wild) or recent form with Grandads Cottage and Quel Destin both having been pulled up on their last outings Mon Kaplais (4.33 Uttoxeter) An opening mark of 100 may underestimate the ability of Mon Kaplais given the calibre of opposition he has faced in his three maiden hurdles The six-year-old was fourth behind Jurancon and Tripoli Flyer who are rated 127 and 126 respectively and have won seven races under rules between them The son of Kapgarde was also fifth behind the highly regarded Regent's Stroll and subsequent two-time Grade 1 third Good And Clever at Newbury and the first two home from his latest run at Windsor have also won since Dan Skelton's handicap debutant has to be seriously considered now he is upped to 2m4f especially with Tristan Durrell taking 3lb off what already looks a potential generous rating Paul Kealy's play of the day at Newbury   Free horse racing tips for Saturday, February 8 at Newbury, Uttoxeter and Wolverhampton   A William Hill Hurdle outsider has caught Paul Kealy's eye as he takes aim at Saturday's big-race action   Looking for free bets? Racing Post have got the best offers, all in one place. Visit racingpost.com/freebets to find out more Published on 7 February 2025inFree tips We are just one day away from the big meeting and you will be able to read top-class analysis and what the trainers think about their hopes from all the races on day one online from 6pm through the Racing Post's Raceday Intel package Racing Post+ subscribers will also be able to read a huge tipping package from Tom Segal's Pricewise and Paul Kealy the fields for day two of Cheltenham will also be revealed at 10am including for the likes of the Queen Mother Champion Chase Turners Novices' Hurdle and Brown Advisory Novices' Chase There is also a jumps fixture from Taunton before evening all-weather action from Newcastle Brace yourselves for the best show in racing It is the first day of the 2025 Cheltenham Festival with a galaxy of stars on display throughout the four days The 2023 champion is out to regain his title after missing the festival last year having returned with impressive wins in the Christmas Hurdle and on Trials day laying in wait is the young pretender Brighterdaysahead who was brilliant on her last start at Christmas while the final fields for day three will be revealed at 10am Day two of the Cheltenham Festival kicks off with yet another pulsating clash in the Turners Novices' Hurdle (1.20) Huntingdon is the other British jumps card before evening all-weather meetings at Newcastle and Wolverhampton The Cheltenham Festival's final-day fields will also be revealed at 10am The action for the third day of the Cheltenham Festival switches to the New course, with the Paddy Power Stayers' Hurdle (4.00) the highlight Chelmsford and Newcastle complete the day's racing The best staying chaser of his generation is already odds-on to emulate the likes of Best Mate, which could secure him legendary status. However, lying in wait could be King George VI Chase hero Banbridge if anything goes wrong given nine of the last ten winners have been at double-figure odds which brings the curtain down on the 2025 Cheltenham Festival The other jumps meetings come from Fakenham and Doncaster while there are all-weather cards from Dundalk There is no time to rest on the post-Cheltenham blues as it is Jennings Bet Midlands Grand National (3.35) day which is Uttoxeter's biggest meeting of the year The 4m2f marathon will be a stamina-sapping race while there is also jumps action from Newcastle and Thurles where it is the track's final meeting of the 2024/25 season The all-weather meetings come from Southwell and Wolverhampton Just as jump racing's biggest week ends the Flat turf season kicks off with the opening fixture of the year at the Curragh The curtain-raising Irish Lincolnshire (3.45) is set to be hugely competitive once again The card will also feature the Group 3 Park Express Stakes There are two jumps meetings in Britain from Chepstow and Market Rasen The day one acca: four Cheltenham Festival favourites who have bookmakers fearing a payout 'in the tens of millions' on Tuesday  'They will make or break day one for us' - firms nominate their biggest liabilities at the Cheltenham Festival  'He's my banker of the meeting' - our experts give their best tips for the Cheltenham Festival  Don't miss your invaluable companion to the Cheltenham Festival. Order here Published on 10 March 2025inWhat's on this week NEWTON TORNADO has shown improved form in each start over hurdles so far running a mighty race when runner-up to a nice type at Cheltenham last month rallying well after to challenge on the run-in but just unable to get on terms with the winner This step up in trip should suit him and he sets a strong standard in this field Histrionic should improve on his opening effort in this sphere at Warwick and can give the selection most to think about SURREY BELLE was a fairly useful winner at up to two miles on the Flat for Hughie Morrison and new connections went to 70,000 guineas to purchase her She has finished runner-up in both starts over hurdles turned over at odds-on at Sedgefield recently giving weight to a year-younger one with slightly better form on the Flat This race doesn’t look as deep and she is expected to make it third time lucky in this sphere I Am The Moon needs more under a penalty but has a likeable attitude and should at least keep the selection honest but FLAMELCO is fancied to continue his good form He has made a positive start for this yard and proved at least as good as ever at Huntingdon last time The handicapper has hit him with an 8 lb rise but he is clearly in great heart and looks the one to beat again in this field He can confirm the form with Lucky Lugger from when the pair met 16 days ago while Another Lord is one to note on chase debut not least the Paul Nicholls-trained BRAVE KINGDOM who shaped well after an absence when third at Newbury over Christmas a longer trip and being a little too exuberant finding him out after he’d briefly got all his rivals at full stretch early in the straight That was just his fourth start over fences and he looks very interesting on the back of that effort Richmond Lake figures on a lenient mark and seems sure to be on the premises while hat-trick-seeking Hunter Legend is another who must enter calculations HOURVARI proved that he retains his ability when runner-up at Wetherby in November and that form has been boosted by the winner scoring again since He was strong in the betting on that occasion and he’s expected to be very competitive again having been dropped 1 lb in the weights since Don’t Tell Su isn’t taken lightly having yet to finish out of the top three over hurdles but HOBB’S DELIGHT is taken to gain a deserved first victory of the campaign with the form of his recent runner-up effort at Catterick having been franked since on the back of a promising reappearance Exeter second Dunworley and Elle Est Beau all command plenty of respect RED CADILLAC was well backed on his handicap debut at Ayr last month paying late on for a big move into contention after being caught further back than ideal when the race began in earnest There should be more to come from him and under a more positive ride he seems sure to launch another bold bid from the same mark Deep Strato and Mon Kaplais have bigger performances in them winning at Grade 2 level in December before finishing fourth in the Grade 1 Sefton at Aintree He ran just three times over hurdles but is built for chasing and will be well suited to this trip trainer Nicky Henderson said: “He was an impressive winner of his sole point-to-point which he followed up when winning his maiden at Plumpton but he was one of the ones who couldn’t go to the festival “He’s grown considerably during the summer He jumps really well and I’d be surprised if he wasn’t near top class in this sphere.” Race of the season? Galopin Des Champs clashes with Fact To File and Fastorslow in barnstorming John Durkan  Looking for free bets? Racing Post have got the best offers, all in one place. Visit racingpost.com/freebets to find out more Published on 23 November 2024inPreviews SUN Racing tackles Saturday's action confident of banging in some winners The only place to get Templegate's tips first - and at the best prices - is by joining Sun Racing's brilliant Members Enclosure (UK only) Sign up now for just £1* to be part of racing's best winning team and get.. *For the first month then £3 per month thereafter SIGN UP NOW 18+ Ts and Cs apply. First month membership £1, then £3 per month unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. UK only. For more information contact help@thesun.co.uk He won in a big field at Punchestown last time when staying well so should have enough stamina to figure. He had eight lengths in hand when scoring at Sandown and should put in another good effort. He was a solid third at Carlisle last time out and should appreciate this test. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page gambleaware.org.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who: Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here Our journalists strive for accuracy but on occasion we make mistakes. For further details of our complaints policy and to make a complaint please click this link: thesun.co.uk/editorial-complaints/ This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks. The action you just performed triggered the security solution. There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase, a SQL command or malformed data. You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked. Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page. Oh no! It looks like JavaScript is not enabled in your browser. Thursday 29 August 2024 at 9:46amPlay Brightcove videoAdam Peaty refuses to confirm if he will be competing at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles as ITV News Central's Sports Correspondent Dan Salisbury-Jones reports He was one of the most-talked about athletes at the Paris Olympics, but Uttoxeter's Adam Peaty has refused to confirm if it will be his last who has won three gold medals and three silvers across three Olympic competitions spoke exclusively to ITV News Central about how he has spent his time since Paris who trained in Derby as a child and more recently at Loughborough University revealed that he has not been in the pool since the competition and instead focused his energy coaching young swimmers in his AP race clinics Speaking to ITV News Central's Sports Correspondent Dan Salisbury-Jones at a children's coaching session in Coventry, the swimmer said: “We are trying to link the grass roots to the teenagers to the elite level Showing the skills that you learn here aren't just for sports These are skills you are going to use for the rest of your life." Peaty refused to confirm if he would get back in the pool to race for Team GB He said "I think we're all going to see the landscape after a few months he'll be 33 at the time of the next Olympics and he has more responsibilities - but he did not rule out an appearance in LA When asked if he felt the sport needed to change "There is going to be a lot of change over the next four years but I think He said the long training hours and the high expectations on young athletes pushed children away from the sport and said that young children need to have fun swimming resilient which is why it's made me the person I am today we need to make it more approachable." Analysis from ITV News Central's Sports Correspondent Adam Peaty is still trying to understand his feelings about finishing second at the Olympics Whilst coaching kids in his AP Race Clinics he is letting them hold his Olympic medals - but the silver from Paris is nowhere to be seen.He is though rightly proud of his performance there he's proud of the response he's had from the public.More 'heartfelt' is how he describes the difference between how people speak to him now compared to when he was posing with his previous golds He jokes about piling on weight since the Games because of a slowing metabolism I made a mistake by saying "you'll have empathy from everyone in their 30s" about that there are many lengths left in him and no shortage of support Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know.. French-recruit LUD’OR was unlucky not to push the winner very close on his British debut at Stratford last month not jumping the last two hurdles that well at all and given that was also his first start for 16 months Derryhassen Paddy looked a good prospect when winning a bumper at Ayr last season and may emerge as the biggest threat ahead of Farland CRAZIERTHANDAISY marked herself down as a good prospect when making her second start in bumpers a winning one at Plumpton back in the spring and she’s fancied to make the perfect start now sent hurdling after seven months off representing a yard that do so well in this sphere Fellow bumper scorers Taxus Baccata and What’s One More are others to consider Rules debutante Feet On The Ground is one to note in the betting for clues SHANAGH BOB quickly made up into a useful hurdler last season winning his first two starts and not disgraced in the Grade 1 Sefton Novices’ Hurdle and this winning pointer (fetched £200,000) may have been let in lightly switched to fences now making his handicap debut Roccovango shaped as though this extra distance will suit when his winning run came to an end at Warwick and is the obvious threat while Grade 2 winning hurdler Hillcrest needs keeping an eye on returning from a lengthy absence The Paul Nicholls-trained BELOW THE RADAR has won all three of his starts under Rules he looks to start life in handicaps on an attractive mark so he gets a confident vote to retain his unbeaten record appeals as the one to chase him home ahead of North Parade A chance is taken on FAITQUE DE L’ISLE who has been given a big chance by the handicapper (now 16 lb below his last winning mark) and didn’t shape badly on his first start for James Evans at Stratford last month He showed he still retains ability but needed the run badly Rajjamataz and Zestful Hope can also make their presence felt COASTAL ROCK has had just four starts under Rules but is already on his third trainer and he was very well supported on his debut for Olly Murphy at Ayr earlier this month He failed to beat a rival home on that occasion He is taken to prove himself on a good mark now and is preferred to Hidden History and Fils de Roi in a trappy handicap SKIFFLE MAN and Diamond Geezer have the profiles of likely improvers in handicaps for their leading stables and the former is fancied to come out on top He has been brought along gradually on his first three starts but he moves up in trip now for his handicap debut and an opening mark of 90 likely underestimates him Uttoxeter's jumps meeting on Wednesday has been hit with a spate of non-runners after heavy rainfall led to a deterioration in ground conditions good to soft in places on the hurdles course but the fixture has been met with 36 non-runners due to the weather which has left patches of standing water on the home straight Over 30mm of rain has hit the West Midlands track since Monday morning but a dry day is expected on Wednesday, with the opening maiden hurdle due off at 2.10 "We had quite a heavy downpour of rain over 48 hours," clerk of the course Richard Fothergill said at 10.30am "We hoped and anticipated it would dry back more than it did yesterday but particularly in the straight the ground is soft "Unfortunately we had so many non-runners because they were declared on good ground It's lovely here this morning and it will continue to dry so conditions should improve as the day goes on "There's still a tiny bit of standing water but hopefully it will be gone by the first race There's a beautiful blue sky now and it's a warm day." All eight contests face non-runners due to the going, with some races losing almost half their numbers including the first division of the 2m4f handicap hurdle (5.15) which is without seven of its declared 16 runners Rails on the hurdles course have been moved to provide fresh ground and the first flight on the straight will be omitted alongside the third fence on the chase course Jockey becomes second to lose a race due to whip rules after going eight strokes over the limit  'It's very hard to swallow' - 25-day whip ban for Dougie Costello after fourth offence in six months  Racing Post Members' Club: 50% off your first three months  Published on 17 July 2024inBritain Copyright © 2025 Spotlight Sports Group Limited or its licensors, all rights reserved Sunday’s National Hunt meetings at Uttoxeter and Warwick have both been abandoned due to waterlogged tracks, but Punchestown is set to go ahead. Each venue had called early-morning inspections due to poor weather forecasts and the worst fears were realised at the two British venues. Uttoxeter was hit by a further 10.5mm of rain on saturated ground, leaving the course unraceable, with standing water in places. Warwick brought forward their inspection following 20mm of rain overnight, which made it 54.5mm since last Monday and left the track waterlogged. However, Punchestown managed to avoid any significant downpours and are set to race on heavy ground. “Following just 1.5mm of rain overnight, Punchestown is fit for racing and today’s meeting goes ahead,” said clerk of the course Brendan Sheridan. “The ground remains heavy and having spoken to Met Eireann this morning there is further rain expected later. “At this stage, Met Eireann are saying we could get 4-5mm but there is a possibility that the showers could get heavier at times and lead to more rain than that. It is a bit unpredictable. “However, the good news is that the track is raceable and the fixture goes ahead.” There will be Flat racing in the UK, with Lingfield staging an all-weather fixture. 2.25 Uttoxeter A staying-on fourth in the EBF Final at Sandown last year Dartmoor Pirate didn't take to chasing at Exeter on his seasonal return but then suggested he had plenty to offer when a clear second in a Pertemps qualifier at Wincanton three weeks later I wouldn't read too much into a distant fifth on horrendous ground at Sandown last time He was never going to get into the Pertemps Final as he's rated too low so this big prize was an obvious target and he retains the potential to be a good deal better than his mark of 123 Looking for free bets? Racing Post have got the best offers, all in one place. Visit racingpost.com/freebets to find out more Published on 14 March 2025inFree tips 2025 · 2M agoThe Midlands Grand National takes centre stage this Saturday and Matt Brocklebank has three fancies on the Uttoxeter card 1pt win Monviel in 1.50 Uttoxeter at 22/1 (William Hill 1pt win Chasingouttheblues in 2.25 Uttoxeter at 9/1 (Paddy Power Bodhisattva in 3.00 Uttoxeter at 25/1 (Betfair Sky Bet offer EXTRA VALUE to Sporting Life Plus readers with exclusive guaranteed advertised prices for ONE HOUR from the time of publication - max £25 Just make sure you're logged in and click on the links below to automatically populate your betslip (does not include Sky Bet Money Back As Cash races) *One-hour price guaranteed has now expired It’s never too late to sign off Festival week on a positive note and Saturday’s Jenningsbet Midlands Grand National is going to be run on a relatively sound surface for this Uttoxeter meeting The one time they called the going ‘good to soft’ on Midlands National day in the past decade the well-backed 3/1 shot Time To Get Up came good for favourite-backers in the main race and this year the easy Eider Chase winner Knockanore seems likely to top the market He won over two and a half miles here before Christmas and clearly stays four miles well enough but it’s not easy to win two of these marathon handicaps in the same season and the assessor has inevitably hit him quite hard with a 10lb rise Val Dancer and Galia Des Liteaux all come from the Grand National Trial at Haydock and each has their merits but there are others to consider from the Eider too Alan King’s last-fence Newcastle faller Egbert was beaten and tiring at the time of his departure but still looks to be in decent form after his Haydock win in December and cheekpieces now replace the visors worn so far this season He’s a player back on a sound surface as he won on good going at Doncaster last January which tends to be a particularly lively surface is for the John McConnell-trained BODHISATTVA who unshipped Alex Harvey in the back straight on the final circuit of the Eider He was a 10/1 shot there after creditable seconds at Doncaster and in the Edinburgh National at Musselburgh beforehand and I’m encouraged by the return of jockey Callum Pritchard A good-ground winner over fences during his time with Gordon Elliott (Robcour-owned) Bodhisattva has a bit of ‘National’ previous having been third in the Ulster National at Downpatrick last April and I think he’s got it in his locker to produce a big run if finding a jumping rhythm around here It’s been a quiet enough time for McConnell but he did have the Champion Bumper runner-up at 33/1 in midweek so it’s not all doom and gloom and I’m surprised to see this horse among the outsiders of the field The solid-looking one I like at Uttoxeter is CHASINGOUTTHEBLUES in the Jenningsbet Handicap Hurdle He only made his Rules debut in mid-October and has been progressing really well as he’s picked up more experience After narrow handicap wins at Wetherby and Ayr around the turn of the year the six-year-old was pitched into a quality Pertemps Qualifier at Haydock last month and he ran a cracker in third despite being badly hampered by a faller three from home Chasingouttheblues did remarkably well to finish where he did given that incident and the runner-up was Doddiethegreat who obviously won Thursday’s Final at the Festival Mark Walford’s horse - a future chaser on looks - has been nudged up another 1lb but I’d be amazed if he didn’t still have more than enough wriggle-room to add to his tally before the year’s out MONVIEL – a horse I tipped when runner-up in this same race 12 months ago – looks dangerously well treated at the moment Beaten a neck by the useful Santos Blue when running in the JenningsBet 200 Shops Nationwide Handicap Hurdle off a mark of 126 last year Harry Derham’s horse returns for another crack off 7lb lower and while bang out of form so far this term a lot of the yard’s horses have been struggling due to their well-documented issues with floods Recent evidence suggests Derham is going to have an excellent spring though with seven winners from 24 runners in the past fortnight (after Friday’s action at Doncaster) and Monviel looks worth chancing at a big price Alice Stevens takes the ride claiming 5lb and it’s noteworthy to see the return of cheekpieces – yet to be reintroduced this term but worn a handful of times in the past including for his three placed efforts last season Click here for full and transparent Value Bet record We are committed in our support of safer gambling Recommended bets are advised to over-18s and we strongly encourage readers to wager only what they can afford to lose If you are concerned about your gambling, please call the National Gambling Helpline / GamCare on 0808 8020 133 · Further support and information can be found at begambleaware.org and gamblingtherapy.org.