Alderwood left out of Novices' Handicap

Alderwood was a notable absentee from the Rewards4 Racing Novices' Handicap Steeple Chase at next week's Cheltenham Festival.

Last season's County Hurdle winner was among the market leaders but has been scratched at the latest confirmation stage although owner JP McManus can still choose from a strong team comprising Colour Squadron, Vulcanite, Eastlake and Please Talk.

Market leader Carlito Brigante is set to carry 11-9 as things stand but Gordon Elliott's former Festival winner still has other options, including the JLT Speciality Handicap Chase earlier on the card.

Elliott and owners Gigginstown House Stud could also be represented by Toner D'Oudairies.

Venetia Williams is well represented at the top of the handicap with Kapga de Cerisy, Tenor Nivernais and Shangani standing their ground while Nobunaga, Clouded Thoughts and Sustainability are further down the weights for the Hereford handler.

The well-backed pair of The Druids Nephew and Attaglance are among other possible runners but Buckers Bridge has been scratched.