You could have run a Grand National from among the huge turnout of Irish racing stars at the Christmas-time wedding of former jockey Davy Condon and Louise Maguire of the Hill of Tara, Co Meath, on 22 December, last.

Davy, who took near fatal injuries from a fall in the 2015 Grand National at Aintree, was in great form for the ceremony at beautiful old Holy Cross Abbey and the reception that followed at Kilshane House, further south in classic Tipperary horse country.

Strong representations from the Condon and Maguire families were joined by the cream of Irish racing, with the Noel Meade and Gordon Elliot stables all there.

So too were Louise’s near neighbours in Meath Robbie Power, Robbie Colgan, Nina and Paul Carberry. Ted Walsh was also on the list.

Jockey Martin Ferris acted as best man, aided by fellow riders Mark Walsh and Mark Enright as groomsmen. It was a happy return to the limelight for Davy, who, from the ground, is still very much active in the sport he loves.

Following visits with family and friends over the holidays it was off to the snows of Switzerland for Louise and Davy in the new year.