Emotional success brings up treble on Easter Monday

THE recent rain, coupled with a hard working team behind the scenes, ensured that the ground at Cothelstone for their annual Easter Monday fixture run by the Taunton Vales was in great shape, and they were rewarded with 31 runners in the spring sunshine.

- REPORT BY KIRSTY BOUTFLOWER

A riding treble for comeback kid Ed Doggrell proved the highlight of the day, teaming up with trainer Chris Barber for a training hat-trick, while Will Biddick also enjoyed a riding double in front of a massive crowd who also enjoyed a family dog show which kicked off the proceedings.

Doggrell had been absent from the saddle since May 2018, but has resumed riding this season for Barber. Their first winner came in the Conditions Race when Move With The Beat made a quick reappearance after his win at Chilfrome to beat the wonderful Southfield Theatre, who ran with his usual zest and enthusiasm against his younger opponent.

As Move With The Beat passed the post to go out onto the final circuit, it was clear that Doggrell was struggling to contain his mount.

He said: “He was running away with me the whole way and I just had to wait and suffer.”

Barber added: “The horse's confidence has just grown and grown this season with every win and he’s a proper horse.”

Owner James Drummond is undecided on where he would go next, but was happy with a third win of the season.