David Cameron ventures racing tips to Today listeners

David Cameron yesterday risked his reputation for far-sighted sagacity by offering Radio 4's Today audience a couple of racing tips. Lured into indiscretion by the sports reporter Garry Richardson, the prime minister – who grew up in racing country on the Berkshire Downs – replied: "If you're a fan of the coalition, you could go for Daring Dream in the 3.50 at Ayr, and if you're slightly more sceptical about how our arrangements are going to work out, you could try Midnight Fantasy in the 3.00 at Wolverhampton." Bookies reported a flood of bets and were therefore relieved when both horses lost. "Had both of Mr Cameron's horses won, bookies would have paid out over £1m to winning punters who followed his tips," said a spokesman for bookies William Hill. The FTSE index was unmoved.