While much of the country is winding down to enjoy a relaxing holiday, I am well aware that, for many of those involved in our industry this is one of our busiest periods.

It is timely to take this opportunity to recognise the incredible job our hard-working stable hands do throughout the year, but especially during a time when many of their friends and family will be on holiday. 

It is easy to say they make the choice to get involved in an industry which is seven-days a week, but we all know that for most it is the love of the horses in their care which gets them out of bed at an ungodly hour of the morning, no matter what the weather.

Our trainers and jockeys will also be covering some miles over the next couple of weeks, where we have 20 race meetings between Boxing Day and 5 January, so please stay safe.

It has been a busy year for everyone and the focus for much of the industry has been centred on the future and the shape that might take. 

The Racing Industry Bill which passed its first reading earlier this month will go before the Transport and Infrastructure select committee in the New Year.  We will be working hard and liaising with clubs and sector groups to ensure there is a cohesive and comprehensive submission from our code.

Over the next couple of weeks, I will be attending a number of race meetings around the country and look forward to hearing any thoughts or feedback you might want to share.

In the meantime, I wish all of our racing family a happy, safe and relaxing Christmas and New Year and may you all be blessed with a winner or two.