Oxfordshire Gold Cup winner Jolly Poacher is to chase a £5,000 first prize in the the Jem Racing Super Paws at Poole.

Nick Colton’s charge finished runner up to Westmead Guru, third in the ante-post betting for the William Hill Derby, at Henlow this week.

His trainer believes the 440m trip at the south coast track will prove ideal for Poacher.

Trainer Richard Baker, who has made an immediate impact on his arrival at Sandy Lane, is sending his dual winner Kates Noble Style for an Oaks trial at Wimbledon this week.

Freedom Emma, the big-race favourite and last year’s runner-up, posted a 28.63 clock in a trial last week. That was faster than last year's heroine, Shaws Dilemma.

l Blackthorn Henry, who competed in a record for Oxford Stadium of 195 races over a period of five years, has been retired.

The Maurice Massey-trained dog has been found a good home to enjoy his retirement.

The Michael Peterson-trained Hycos Tiger, who recently ran his 100th race, has also been retired.

He will spend his retirment with his owner.

OXFORD’S extra meetings on Friday to cater for the festive celebrations are December 3, 10 and 17.

The popular Boxing Day fixture starts at 11am, but there will no card on New Year’s Day.

With the additional meetings in mind, a boost for the racing office is that the greyhound strength is at his best this year with 408 hounds.