SIR – What a state of affairs! When it comes to the use of the whip, British racing is the laughing stock of the racing world.

When I say racing world, I am, of course, referring to the major racing countries, not those who put on Mickey Mouse racing. It’s a pity our racing is getting closer to the latter.

Phil Bull said: “Racing is all about betting.” Well, it isn’t. It is also about putting on a show, but it must be a show that’s worth watching.

Obviously, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) doesn’t see it that way.

The BHA has watered-down racing to such an extent that it has become an “after you” sport. Jockeys are now expected to ride with the breaks on.

Riders, in this country, are in the depths of depression and despair. They have lost the will to win.

Disillusioned punters are bound to drift away from the wishy-washy racing.

I keep puzzling over this strange idea that an eight stone jockey, using a little padded stick, can “beat up” half a ton of horse.

K Whitham, John Street, Denholme