John Mullins is to join Towcester as an attached trainer. The Suffolk based handler is expected to trial his first runners at the track at the weekend. He expects to qualify around 20 hounds for graded racing.

He said: “I have spoken to Simon Franklin and I leave on the best of terms. It is purely a racing decision to give me extra opportunities with my runners. But I am looking forward to coming back with Smallmead for the George Ings St.Leger.

Thoughts on the move – from Thinking Thursday