Franchoek leads Triumph charge

White-hot favourite Franchoek heads 15 entries for the JCB Triumph Hurdle at Cheltenham on Friday.

The JP McManus-owned four-year-old has won three Graded races this term and represents the yard of Alan King, who struck gold with champion hurdler Katchit 12 months ago.

Celestial Halo, trained by Paul Nicholls, also takes his chance alongside stablemate Five Dream.

A strong Irish contingent is spearheaded by Noel Meade’s Silverhand and bolstered by compatriots Beau Michael, Personal Column, Temlett and Won In The Dark.

David Pipe has given the once-raced Star Of Angels the chance to shine, while recent Haydock winner Serabad makes the final cut.

The Triumph field is completed by Callisto Moon, Diego Velasquez, Lemon Silk, Songe and Special Day.