Irish interests in the 23-strong field for Saturday’s hugely prestigious Hennessy Gold Cupstaying handicap at Newbury are spiked by the likely participation of last season’s RSA Chase winner Lord Windermere, who represents the Jim Culloty team.

NICKY HENDERSON is much happier with Binocular ahead of his run in the stanjames.com Fighting Fifth Hurdle than he was at this stage 12 months ago. On that occasion, the 5-6 favourite for the Newcastle feature but could finish only fifth behind Go Native.