poole-a4-sixpack-jan_febPoole boss Shaun Spencer-Perkins is hoping to see the SKY cameras on site for the first time later this year.

He said: “I gather the SKY people would be interested and we are exploring the options to see if it is feasible in the second half of the year. They have never been here but it would be a great opportunity to showcase the stadium.

“The most likely event would be for the Super Paws which has been sponsored by Martin Johnston. I would want it to be at least £5,000 to the winner.

“Before then we are planning for the Golden Crest. Traditionally it has been held in February though the weather can be an issue. We hope to finalise something for the Calendar in the next few days.”

The Dorset venue have taken possession of a set of handicap traps. They need to be fitted and installed by electrical engineers they expect to stage their first handicap race within a matter of weeks.

Spencer-Perkins will be inviting Alma Keppie and her kennelstaff along to the stadium for a celebratory meal and presentation to celebrate their finishing with the most graded winners in 2016.

The GM said: “It was a marvellous achievement by Alma and her staff and we would like to formally acknowledge that.”

The Totton based trainer finished three wins clear of Phil Chatfield, thanks in part to an amazing 22.3% strike rate. Three runners shared the award for most graded wins: Best Ace, Galtee Spirit and Ide I Dont Know with 12 wins apiece.

Pups for 2017: Cunning Joker (Droopys Jet-Tommys Inluck, May 15) Owner Mrs BE Billett Trainer Alma Keppie A pup with only four official trials and one race on his card – and one of those trials was a DNF at Clonmel when only 14 months old. He has qualified at Poole with a sub-27.00 trial and finished last on debut – but beaten less than five lengths in A1.