Harry Derham on life at Ditcheat during the lockdown

Assistant trainer Harry Derham on life at Paul Nicholls' during the coronavirus shutdown

"Obviously it’s very disappointing that the jumps season has been cut short.

"Paul still had a huge amount lot of horses left to run, the ground has been very deep all winter and loads have been waiting for it to dry out. They’re now obviously not going to get their chance.

"We had lots saved for Aintree and Ayr but it's one of those things and we're not the only ones.

"Since the new measures have been brought in Paul’s biggest concern has been the health and well-being of his staff and trying to keep them financially stable and supported during this unprecedented time.

"Running hand-in-hand with that is the welfare of the 150 horses we have here. It’s a challenge and an ever-changing situation. We've started roughing the horses off now but a lot of them would go out in the field and there’s not nearly enough grass for them to do so yet.

"It's also far too cold so we’re gradually roughing them off and doing routine cantering to keep the edge off them and making sure they don’t get too fresh.

"The staff have been fantastic, very sensible and listening to the government guidelines. They're keeping their distance and being very sensible. Everyone seems healthy and outside their essential work with the horses, are staying at home.

"Paul has been unbelievable with everyone, looking after them the best he can in a dire situation."