Murphy seeks advice over seven-day ban

Timmy Murphy is still mulling over whether to appeal against the seven-day ban imposed by the Plumpton stewards for improper riding which would result in him missing several bigrace rides over the Christmas period.

Chris Broad, his agent, today said: "I have just spoken to Timmy on the phone and he is about to contact John Blake of the Jockeys' Association to get advice over whether to lodge an appeal.

"I would appeal myself if I was him, but I'm not Timmy Murphy. I am sure he will give the option much careful thought."

Murphy, who was punished after he threw his whip in frustration at his mount, Semi Precious, when they fell at the fourthlast in yesterday's Coral Casino Handicap Chase, was due to partner Martin Pipe's Our Vic or Therealbandit in the King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day and Beef Or Salmon in the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown on 28 December.

If the ban, which is due to run from 26 December to 1 January, is upheld, Murphy will also miss the Welsh National.

Prior to the Plumpton incident the 29-year-old was enjoying a purple patch, partnering a host of big-race winners and moving into second place behind Tony McCoy in the race for the jump jockeys' title.