LEADING National Hunt jockey Richard Johnson, who hails from Hereford, has come in for a lot of praise from Welsh trainer Tim Vaughan who trains in the Vale of Glamorgan and who has sent out 250 winners in the last three seasons.

He said: "Richard Johnson has undoubtedly played a leading part in the success of the yard thus far. He has ridden nearly 150 of our winners and his skill and strength in the saddle were never so apparent as on Saint Are, Spirit Of Adjisa and Beshabar, all three benefitting from outstanding rides.

"His feedback on horses is invaluable both to myself and our owners and it is no surprise that he has stayed at the very top of his profession for so many years.''

Richard won the Coral Scottish Grand National on Beshabar and the nine-year-old chestnut gelding is already one of the ante-post favourites to win the real thing at Aintree next year.

Richard, who chalked-up his first winner Rusty Bridge at Hereford in 1994, was unlucky not to have won the 2002 Grand National as his mount What's Up Boys led over the last only to be pipped on the run-in by Bindaree to whom he was conceding 16lbs.

Perhaps next year will be Richard's turn to win the world's greatest steeplechase.

Meanwhile, shake off those Monday blues and make the most of those long summer days by joining us at Hereford Racecourse for exciting jump racing action on August 22. The perfect way to start your week.

For details of the Cargills Special Package call 01432273560. Grandstand and paddock tickets booked in advance £17 or £19 on the day.

And don't forget that we will be holding our Family Fun Day on August 31.

So why not join us for an exciting day out for all the family. There's free entertainment for the children throughout the day including a mini-zoo and, of course, the racing action for the adults. What better way than to spend a Wednesday afternoon.

Family Tickets are just £25 when booked in advance only. Grandstand and paddock in advance £17 or £19 on the day. Telephone 01432 273560 or email info@hereford-racecourse.co.uk