PAUL Nicholls admits Kempton’s King George meeting won’t be the same without the usual Boxing Day buzz.
The course was forced to announce the fixture was moved behind closed doors after Surrey was placed into Tier 3 restrictions.
Up to 2000 lucky punters had snapped up the tickets just hours after they were released but will now be given a refund.
And the trainer whose Cyrname and two-time champ Clan Des Obeaux are vying for favouritism, just hopes crowds are allowed back before too long.
He said: “It’s a shame. Without the normal buzz and atmosphere it just won’t be the same.
“Don’t get me wrong we’re lucky to be racing, and I hope the people there can make the most of it.
“I hope it gets back to normal quicker than last time, it’s not the same experience at all.
“But we’re still desperate to win it, it’s a great race, it’s still the King George.
“One of the best days we’ve ever had on a racecourse was there when Kauto Star won his fifth.
“The atmosphere that day was electric and unfortunately there will be none of that this time.
“Thankfully people can at least tune in on the TV.”
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