Local trainer David Pipe notched up his half century of winners for the 2022-23 season when Only the Bold won at Bangor on Dee at 5-1 on Saturday ridden by Fergus Gillard.

Pipe had 47 winners for the whole of 2021-22 so he has already surpassed this number in addition to topping the £500,000 prize money and is now looking to push on and given the form he is currently enjoying he could well reach his century.

The Nicholashayne-based handler said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank both my owners and staff for all their support and hard work.

"Without them, none of our achievements would be possible and we are going to keep kicking and try to get as many winners as possible.”

One of those winners was at Taunton last week where American Sniper won the opening event at 6-4 under stable jockey Tom Scudamore.

Taunton race again on Thursday December 8 when they host their Festive Meeting where the seven-race card, which kicks off at 12.38pm, has a whopping great prize pot of almost £71,500 up for grabs.

The most valuable race on the card is The Dave Criddle Travel Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 3) over a distance of two miles two furlongs at 2.08pm and is bound to attract attention from leading trainers.

In addition to the racing action on the course the King’s College, Taunton, musicians and choir will be present to add to the festive atmosphere along with a number of trade stands offering a range of Christmas gifts and fayre.

Punters are reminded that they can take advantage of the discounts on offer by booking their tickets in advance online before noon on the day prior to racing.

A courtesy coach serviuce departs from outside Platform 5 of Taunton Railway Station 90 minutes before the off and returns half an hour after the start of the last race.

To book tickets and for all further information log onto  www.tauntonracecourse.co.uk.