Errol French - one of the most successful owners in NSW country racing - has died following an extended battle with illness.

To experienced trainer Ross Stitt’s discerning eye, Clan McClymont isn’t far off the mark which augers well for the gelding’s chances in the WHK Pink Silks Summer Cup (1200m) at Coffs Harbour on Sunday.

Course and distance specialist, Taree six-year-old gelding Al Be Swift, should prove hard to beat in the feature Airport Hotel-Motel Benchmark 70 Handicap (1007m) at Taree-Wingham Race Club’s big eight-race TAB card at Bushland Drive Racecourse today.