Geraghty set for Diamond sparkler

Barry Geraghty has been formally booked to partner Diamond Harry in the William Hill King George VI Chase at Kempton on St Stephen's Day, where all eight confirmed entries have been declared to run.

Geraghty, who landed the Christmas highlight in 2004 and 2005 aboard Kicking King, steps in for the plum spare ride on the Nick Williams-trained eight-year-old, owned by the Paul Duffy Diamond Partnership and winner of last season’s Hennessy Gold Cup.

He was last seen in the Betfair Chase where he was ridden by James Reveley, who will be in action at Wetherby.

Paul Nicholls’ four-time winner Kauto Star has been declared alongside stablemate Master Minded while Nicky Henderson’s Long Run, hero of the race last season as well as the Cheltenham Gold Cup, is all set for the rematch.

Paddy Brennan has been booked to partner Tom George’s Nacarat and the other three contenders – Captain Chris, Somersby and Golan Way – all stand their ground at the final stage.