Rumour mill found to be baseless, but Meade’s ill–fortune at Cheltenham continues unabated

THIS has not been a good meeting for favourites and yesterday underlined that once again, spreading fear and terror among Irish punters.

And, when things are going badly, there’s noting like an Irish rumour machine to further inflame the delicate sensibilities of the Irish betting public.

Noel Meade’s progressive Aran Concerto was a well-backed favourite for the Ballymore Properties Novices’ Hurdle coming into the festival, but throughout Tuesday night and yesterday morning the six-year-old was the subject of many wild rumours about his well-being.