Newmarket trainer Mark Tompkins has pulled Fantail out of tomorrow's £50,000 Listed Ulster Harp Derby at Down Royal, but says it has nothing to do with the current unrest in the North. "I was keen to run the horse despite the obvious problems," Tompkins said, "but I learned of the likelihood of gales in Scotland at the weekend and Fantail may not be able to make it from Stranraer to Ulster on the ferry.

"I didn't want to have the horse stranded in Scotland so I decided reluctantly not to go ahead with my plans. It's a pity really, for I thought he had a good chance - but I have to think of the horse first."

Mike Todd, the racecourse manager, added: "Of course we are disappointed, for Fantail was the only English runner in the race. But we should have no problems staging the meeting and Irish trainers have already phoned confirming their support."