People have learned to be grateful for small mercies in recent months so this week's government announcement about a potential increase in permitted outdoor crowd sizes is eagerly awaited. Any assumption it was a done deal vanished with news of increased coronavirus numbers in recent days. An increase in attendance from 200 to 500 doesn't sound much. Crowds of up to 5,000 have been permitted in parts of France for weeks. But the impact on Irish racing's morale would be significant.

It has been great to keep the momentum of a good season going through an unforgettable Galway, and an equally memorable week to date.