Venetia Williams has endured a torrid few months – a stark contrast to the past few seasons when she’s been holding her own in top company. The stable’s return to form was brought to the attention of Ludlow regulars with a treble on February 18th, and the ascent back to the top table continued yesterday with success in the Johnny Henderson Grand Annual at the Cheltenham Festival.

The pain at the stable has been shared by stable jockey Charlie Deutsch, who put in an inspired ride on 66/1 shot Martator to deny 2025 victor Jazzy Matty a nose in the 2m £150,000 handicap.

Recognizing that this season was a transitionary one, where many of the older chasers were past their best, Williams recognized the contribution of her long-time rider. “We met the last few fences on a great stride and winged them. Charlie rode a great race” she told Racing TV and Racing Post.

Deutsch was equally effusive about his principal employer, despite having ridden less than half the number of winners from last season. The likes of support from Mel Rowley simply cannot fill a void when a mainstay like Venetia is underperforming. However, sporting an unabashed and refreshingly huge grin, Deutsch relayed, Venetia is classy. Form is temporary and class is permanent. I’m just over the moon.”

Steady Charlie, l’Homme Pressé still to come.