Overthestabledoor

Discover the racing life of former jockey and racing groom Brian Theaker, who became legendary hitting the headlines for feeding a racehorse a Mars Bar, which resulted in him losing the race

The Racing Life of Brian Theaker 'I got a great memory for horses' names and what happened back then,’ said Brian Theaker, speaking so eloquently about his time as a stable lad for the late Peter Easterby. ‘I’ll start from the gateway as you walked into the yard. Alverton, Night Nurse, Little Owl, Sea Pigeon, King Weasel who ...

Part 2 of racing that sound dodgy anywhere else than in the yard!

Part 2 of racing that sound dodgy anywhere else but in the yard!

There's always those few that should really stay within a racing yard... can you add a few more in the comments below?

Read this week's blog on Camilla Sharples - read about her career over here, Ireland and back here again as head of travelling for Ben Pauling - read her words about the magic of a Festival winner, plus many big winners and Grade 1s! A true superstar 📷Michael Harris Photography and Horse Racing

The Racing Life of Camilla Sharples I interviewed Camilla Sharples, hanging off every word. Throughout her years in racing, she has been associated with a long list of talented horses and big days. However, after growing up in Over Kellet, Lancashire, Camilla could have easily pursued a different tract: Camilla and MeetmebytheseaPhoto...

July was hot days and lots of winners! Plus horses coming back into work and preparations for the annual owners' day added to the busyness

July 2026 Blog The last month can be summed up in one word: winners! We’re still in the midst of holiday season for the staff, but the racing continues, especially the summer jumpers at Newton Abbot, Uttoxeter and Worcester. Crunchy and John On 26th June, groom John Dina had a brilliant day – one he’d waited...

🏇 MANCHESTER’S LOST RACECOURSE 🏇

Manchester is one of Britain’s largest cities without its own racecourse, despite having a racing history stretching back more than 300 years.

Racing was first recorded at Kersal Moor in 1687. It later moved between several sites before Manchester Racecourse found its final home at Castle Irwell in Salford.

The course staged both Flat and jumps racing, with major events including the Manchester November Handicap and the Lancashire Oaks. It even hosted the St Leger during the Second World War.

However, financial problems led to Castle Irwell closing in November 1963. More than 20,000 people attended the final meeting, where Lester Piggott rode the winner of the last race.

The November Handicap moved to Doncaster, while the Lancashire Oaks found a new home at Haydock Park. The former Castle Irwell site was later used for student housing, flood protection and a nature reserve.

More than 60 years later, Manchester has never gained a replacement.

❓Do you think a city the size of Manchester should have its own racecourse?

Congratulations Ludo 🤴

Congratulations to Ludo Gaubusseau from Donald McCain’s for winning our Stable Staff Hamper!🙌

NARS