High hopes at Leopardstown

Sunday’s showpiece fixture at Leopardstown is expected to go ahead as planned.

Frost had been a concern at the Dublin venue following an inspection of conditions on Thursday.

However, a statement issued on Friday afternoon read: “Following a rise in temperatures throughout this morning and afternoon there is no longer any frost in the ground at Leopardstown.

“With current weather forecasts predicting a further rise in temperatures tomorrow and again on Sunday, no problems are anticipated with regards to the staging of Sunday’s meeting featuring the BHP Insurances Irish Champion Hurdle and the Frank Ward Solicitors Arkle Novice Chase.

“Conditions, however, will be monitored on an ongoing basis.”