Oxx and O'Brien horses stand firm for Chester Vase

Irish raiders Call To Battle and David Livingston feature among just five declared runners in the MBNA Chester Vase on Thursday.

Although the mile-and-a-half Group Three is a recognised trial for next month’s Investec Derby, 1990 runner-up Quest For Fame was the last horse to participate in this race and win the Epsom Classic.

Call To Battle is an interesting contender for John Oxx, having finished second in the Ballysax Stakes at Leopardstown last month.

The Aidan O’Brien-trained David Livingston was favourite for the same race, but was beaten into fifth.

Charlie Hills runs Newmarket maiden winner Model Pupil, while Minimise Risk also steps up in grade for Andrew Balding having been successful at Newbury.

Completing the field is Mickdaam, who is back with Richard Fahey after having enjoyed a successful stint in Dubai with Mike De Kock.

He made an encouraging second debut for the Yorkshire trainer when narrowly beaten by Rougemont in the Tattersalls Millions 3-Y-O Trophy.