With many at Oxford Stadium nervously awaiting the inevitable planning application to build homes on the Sandy Lane site, Oxford Owners’ Association chairman John Alcock has sought the support of Oxford East MP Andrew Smith .

Alcock, who is also treasurer of the national owners’ association, has written to Smith and received a reply.

The MP has backed the future of the stadium over the past few years, and admits the local council only came down in favour of keeping the site as a leisure complex last December.

However, as yet, Smith has not given any indication as to his stance over the latest application. But as he lives locally, I would imagine he would like the stadium to stay as it is.

Meanwhile, far from being down, racegoers can relish an exciting end to 2012 with some good open races. First up will be the Blanchford Oxfordshire Stakes on October 13, followed by the 80th staging of the Cesarewitch on October 20, and the Claydon Racing ‘At Witney’ Oxfordshire Gold Cup on October 27.

NEW trainer Dave Lee has a 40 per cent strike rate since his arrival at Oxford and landed an 80-1 treble on Saturday.

Fellow dual-attached handler Nick Carter had five winners from 12 runners last week.