RACING: Martin Pipe fell foul of the Hereford stewards yesterday, picking up a £1,100 fine over the running and riding of Yourman.

The record-breaking champion trainer was judged guilty of breaching rule 155 after his runner finished eighth in the Severn Valley Mobile Catering National Hunt Juvenile Hurdle.

Yourman, who was sent off at 16 to 1, was always behind under amateur rider Tom Malone in the 17-furlong race, eventually finishing 50 lengths adrift of the winner, Predestine.

The Hereford stewards inquired into his performance and they interviewed both Malone and Pipe's representative Bob Hodge. Malone said his instructions were to settle the gelding in and do his best but he added that Yourman was very keen in the early stages, he had made mistakes at his hurdles and that he appeared to be hanging.

Hodge confirmed that Malone's instructions were correct and that he was satisfied with the ride. He also added that Yourman had been very keen in his first race and still appeared to be so.

However, having heard the evidence and viewed video tapes of the race, the stewards found Pipe to be in breach of rule 155 concerning the instructions he had given to Malone. They also found Malone guilty of breaking rule 158 in that he failed to take all reasonable measures to ensure the best possible placing.

The rider was banned for seven days so he will be out of action on January 19th to 24th and 26th. Yourman was also suspended from running for 40 days (January 10th to February 18th).

Pipe was initially fined £2,500 by the stewards as they thought it was his second offence in two years but it was later discovered that he had successfully appealed against his previous offence.