Littmoden denies intimidation

One of the trainers at the centre of an investigation into alleged bullying at Wolverhampton last weekend has denied any involvement and revealed that continued cuts in prize money could result in a massive reduction in his involvement in all-weather racing.

The Jockey Club have announced an inquiry to decide whether owners, trainers and riders were pressured into withdrawing horses from Saturday night's fixture, with senior steward Julian Richmond-Watson arguing that "we are not prepared to turn a blind eye to such reports."

However, Newmarket trainer Nick Littmoden today described suggestions that one trainer was reduced to tears by the incident as "utter garbage."

He added: "If people want to print stuff like that they really ought to name names, but I would be absolutely amazed if this inquiry proves that anyone has been intimidated into joining the protest over cuts in prize money."

A shortfall in Levy income has led to a total of £6m being culled from prize money for the last four months of 2003 and some races being run for as little as £2,000.

Insiders suggest that the BHB are planning to restore the minimum value of all races to £4,000 from 1 January, but Littmoden fears the recent cuts could be "the thin end of the wedge and a huge kick in the teeth both for owners and stable staff."

He added: "It's down to personal opinion whether people run in any race, but people who decide to race for reduced money now will not be able to complain if such pitiful prize money becomes the norm.

"I don't know what the next step will be as regards further protest action, but I do know that this is the most important issue facing the sport and much more significant than the jockeys' row over mobile phones.