Cork's St Stephen's Day fixture fell victim to the weather yesterday, and although the meeting has been transferred to Tuesday, December 28th, even that is subject to an inspection this Sunday.

The track was underwater yesterday after the River Blackwater burst its banks and the poor weather forecast left the authorities little option.

The Leopardstown management have no such concerns and the course manager, Matt Mitchell, said yesterday: "As of now we have no concerns about racing taking place and we're positive it will go ahead."

As for Monday, some fears had been expressed about the Down Royal fixture, but the track manager, Michael Todd, explained yesterday: "I'm fairly happy we will be alright. There is a horrendous forecast for tonight but after that it's just showers and strong winds so I'm fairly optimistic there won't be a problem."

The ground at Down Royal is currently described as heavy. A Turf Club spokesman said that no problems were foreseen with Clonmel on Monday going ahead.

Tim Sprake is reported to be still making "steady, slow progress" in North Hampshire Hospital, Basingstoke. The 32year-old jockey has been unconscious since suffering head injuries in a car accident on December 13th.