A group of racing enthusiasts have made a bright start in a new link with Norton trainer Tim Etherington.

Celtic Thunder, one of the two two-year-olds they part-own, came fourth on Bank Holiday Monday in the first race of his career.

The syndicate is organised by York racing fan Andy Mitchell, who was a member of the former syndicate which leased the filly Evening Press from Etherington.

When that syndicate folded because of the filly's poor showing, Mitchell set about starting a new group.

He contacted those who belonged to the Evening Press syndicate and seven of them are among the 15 in the new group.

They are quarter owners in Celtic Thunder and the as yet unraced Quintillion. Celtic Thunder made a promising start to his racing career when finishing fourth in a five furlongs maiden stakes at Newcastle earlier this month.

""He tracked brilliantly, led on the inside and was beaten only half a length for third place," said Mitchell.

"Quintillion hasn't raced yet because he has had a sore shin.

"We want to get the number in the syndicate up to 20, so there are five places available.

"There is a £250 fee to join plus £30 a month, with the minimum period of membership being one year."

Some of the syndicate members made their first visit to Etherington's Wold House stables last weekend to see their horses.

For full details about joining the syndicate, ring Mitchell on 07876 792477.

Updated: 11:42 Saturday, May 17, 2003