Strong hand or Hannon

Richard Hannon, who won the first running of the Watership Down Stud Sales Stakes with Madame Boulangere three years ago, is responsible for eight of the 43 confirmations for the race at Newbury on Saturday.

The Marlborough trainer’s team includes Newmarket Listed race fourth Baltic Dip, dual scorer Aastral Magic and Goodwood nursery winner Miss Cassia.