Top trainers Paul Nicholls and Martin Pipe shared the spoils in the feature Vodafone Gold Cup Handicap Chase in Newbury today.

Buckby Lane could be doubtful for next week’s Cheltenham Festival after returning with sore shins following a disappointing display at Newbury last Saturday.

Venn Ottery, who holds lofty entries at Cheltenham and Aintree, could have his first run for Martin Pipe at Newbury on Saturday.

JOCKEY CLUB officials were none-the-wiser yesterday as to whether champion trainer Martin Pipe will attend a scheduled hearing tomorrow over his refusal to allow a horse to be dope-tested at Haydock last week.

Venetia Williams is to give Kelrev an unorthodox preparation for what she hopes will be a bountiful spell for her French import by running him in the Tote betXpress Showcase Handicap Hurdle at Plumpton on Monday.