Trainer Nick Colton is to rest Rising Ruby after she disappointed in an open race.

She will now be aimed at the Oxfordshire Stakes in the new year along with kennelmate and ante-post favourite Jolly Poacher.

Poacher won all three big races here last year, and has already won the Oxfordshire Gold Cup again this year.

l THE Greyhound Racing Association are reported to have pulled out of the Midland Greyhound Ball usually held early in the New Year.

The cost to the company is substantial and in these days of austerity, every little helps as they say.

However, the awards for best dog and bitch and champion trainer will continue with presentations at home tracks.

The GRA have also removed the Sky Sports service from the Perth Pat bar at Oxford and their other tracks, again to keep within the budget.

l I JOIN with the Oxford Stadium management in wishing owners, trainers and punters, not forgetting the bookmakers, a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.