Case facing trainer to resume after Cheltenham

A leading owner has withdrawn two high-profile horses from racing as the case against trainer Philip Fenton regarding the alleged possession of banned animal medicines, including anabolic steroids, was adjourned until after the Cheltenham Festival.

Mr Fenton, aged 49, of Garryduff, South Lodge, Carrick-on-Suir, Co Tipperary, was not in court in Carrick-on-Suir yesterday when the charges against him were mentioned. Counsel for the Minister for Agriculture indicated there will be 12 to 15 witnesses called, including some from France.

As things stand, Mr Fenton will be allowed to run his horses — including the Michael O’Leary-owned Hennessy Gold Cup winner Last Instalment and former Champion Bumper winner Dunguib — at next month’s festival.