Murphy works Cheltenham 8

Ferdy Murphy worked eight of his Cheltenham squad after racing at Doncaster.

The Middleham handler was delighted with how the exercise went over two miles of Town Moor, with Kalahari King the highest profile name to stretch his legs.

The latter took them along together with Riguez Dancer and Hollo Ladies, with Divers in behind.

As the tempo was gradually wound up, it was Divers who crossed the line ahead of Riguez Dancer and Kalahari King. Poker De Sivola caught the eye making up plenty of ground, seemingly well within himself.

Murphy, who reported it was "all systems go" for Big Fella Thanks and the Grand National after his fourth at Newbury, said: "That was just what we wanted, it was a bit of a jolly day out for them and they have stretched their legs. It was all about making sure they enjoyed it.

"They will all go to the beach on Thursday and that should put them spot-on for Cheltenham.

"Poker is a bit of a law unto himself but he will run in Cross Country and will school over some banks on Sunday. He could be the type to take to it."

Others in action for Murphy were Only The Best, De Boitron and Galant Nuit,