LET us preface this story that no-one in the mainstream racing media in Sydney seems prepared to write by saying we are not for one moment suggesting that crest-of-the-wave trainer Bjorn Baker is doing anything wrong.

But stewards need to act to silence some of the terrible ‘reasons’ for his winning streak that are being alleged on social media and behind-the-scenes in the industry without anyone attempting to correct the claims.

In recent times the Baker stable has incredibly outperformed every top trainer in the last 100 years, including the legendary Tommy Smith. When it comes to strike rate he makes the modern-day champion Chris Waller look insignificant.

It is no surprise that Baker is the victim of the ‘Tally Poppy Syndrome’. First he was labelled ELO (conductor of the Electric Light Orchestra) by his critics. You work that one out for yourselves but in this era of integrity one would hope that would be near-on impossible.

Now they are saying his stable staff includes a former disqualified harness racing identity known for his treatment of horses. Firstly, people with that sort of record cannot be employed by trainers and Baker isn’t silly enough to do that. Secondly, as a former chemist why would he need any help when it comes to treatment of his horses where his record is exemplary?

As we said at the start we aren’t accusing Bjorn Baker (a trainer the punters love) of anything untoward. We believe the secret of his amazing run of success has been a terrific team of horses – the best he has ever had since coming from New Zealand.

But from an integrity perspective, Stewards should step in, investigate the outrageous claims that a disqualified person is associated with the Baker stable and make a Report on the subject. Sydney racing can certainly do without any further controversy.