WE HAD just the one runner last week, Old Bridge, who finished fourth over hurdles at Bangor. While I had hoped for a better result I don’t think he ran his true race for a couple of reasons and we know he is better than this. He seems fine after the race, which is the main thing, and I am sure he can bounce back next time.

Things remain relatively quiet on the runner’s front this week but Mancero ran at Newton Abbot on Tuesday. This will be our three year olds second start for the yard and he returns from a break following a disappointing British debut at Hexham back in June. He is a little bundle of energy and with some rain having fallen at Newton Abbot, he will enjoy the ground and I am sure we will see a better performance.

Hammer Dan is our only other entry of the week at Uttoxeter on Thursday. He will be returning from a wind operation and if he runs, it would be great to get his head in front. There is no jumps racing at all at the weekend but Hammer Dan may get a further entry back at Worcester next Monday so keep checking the Daily News on the website for all the latest news on the stable.

We have produced a little booklet with all our horses in training for the coming season ahead with a few extra things as well. Copies are available to purchase for £5.00 plus £2.50 postage and packaging with all proceeds going to the Somerset and Dorset Air Ambulance. Please do get in touch on 01884 840715 or email [email protected] to order your copy.

Meet more horses at Pond House: Order of the Dance (IRE )- A lovely five year old he is lightly raced and has finished runner up in three of his seven starts over hurdles in Ireland. We are learning about him all the time but he goes nicely at home and we are looking forward to getting him on the racecourse over here.

Pachacuti (IRE) - won the jump jockeys Welsh Derby at Chepstow last season under Jack Tudor. He finished second twice but did not perform up to his best for the majority of the season. Goes nicely at home on the gallops and is now handicapped to run well. Likely to mix both hurdling and chasing again this season.

Parchment (FR) - A gorgeous three-year-old gelding by Triple Threat who made a winning career debut at Clairefontaine in June. He jumped and travelled well that day and was very impressive.

Phantomofthepoints (IRE) -The winner of two hurdle races so far and perhaps a little unfortunate not to be more. Started last season with a fantastic run in the stayers handicap hurdle at Haydock to be a close third. Relatively lightly raced for a seven year old I hope there is more to come from him over fences.

Punta Del Este (FR) - A talented three-time hurdle winner who joined us earlier in the year. Was not at his best in two starts for the yard after but has summered well and has had wind surgery. Goes nicely at home and with some help from the handicapper there is plenty of fun to be had with him going forwards..

David Pipe’s column as told to Richard Walsh.