Denton Hall News

Hundreds flock to open day - including Grand National hero

HUNDREDS of racing enthusiasts turned out this morning for an open day hosted by one of the North East’s leading trainers.

Michael Dods opened Denton Hall stables to the public as part of National Racehorse Week and an estimated 400 people flocked to the yard, near Darlington.

They included a VIP guest in the form of Gerry Scott (main picture), who rode Merryman II to win the first televised Grand National in 1960.

Gerry rode the horse for Middleham trainer Neville Crump and went on to become the first former professional jockey to be employed by The Jockey Club as a starter.

“They said it wouldn’t work having a jockey as starter but I lasted 30 years, so I can’t have done too badly, can I?” said Gerry.

“I’ve known Michael for a lot of years, he’s a very good trainer, and it’s a pleasure to support his open day.”

Spectators were able to see a range of activities, including: horses going up the gallops; a starting stalls demonstration; farrier, Danny Souter at work; an equine physiotherapy session by Lee Clark; plus horses in the equine spa and on the treadmill.

John Lipton, from Stockton, was a first-time visitor to Denton Hall, and he was impressed with what he saw. “It’s been really interesting to see behind the scenes of such a professional operation,” he said.

Retired racing journalist Jan Green added: “The horses are fabulous and it’s such a great set-up. It was a pleasure to see the horses work and the staff are so friendly. I’ve loved it.”

Michael Dods said: “It was a fantastic turn out – far more than last year. It’s clear that people love to come to see the horses close up and what goes in to running a racing stables.

“We are delighted to play our part in promoting National Racehorse Week, and thanks to the staff for doing such a great job in making sure that the visitors were made to feel welcome.”

It was a funpacked morning and the picture below shows Chris Peacock, of Middlesbrough, putting up a few pounds overweight on the horse simulator!