Hobbs Relief At Exeter Double

Philip Hobbs believes his string has 'turned the corner' from the bout of coughing which has affected up to 30 per cent of the Somerset stable.

The trainer admitted after saddling an Exeter double that Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle favourite Detroit City is in an isolation unit along with several other Cheltenham Festival fancies.

Hobbs has adopted a frank approach with the media since several of his Sandhills team went down with the cough last month, but he is confident all will be well with the likes of Detroit City and Arkle Chase hotpot Fair Along.

He said: 'We've had a few coughers all season and there was an increase to about a third of them in January, but we have stabled Detroit City, Fair Along, Boychuk and Liberate in boxes separate to the rest of the yard.

'It's always a worry when this happens, especially with Cheltenham so close, and I admit it affected more than I would have liked, around 30 per cent. When bugs are around new ones are going to get it.'

Of Detroit City, Hobbs added: 'He needs some graft and needed his run in the Agfa. I might take him for an away gallop depending on what our own grass gallops are like.

'I think he has every right to be favourite and I hope he confirms it in the Champion.'

Mark The Book and President Royal ran out clear cut winners of the first two races on the Exeter card and Hobbs went on: 'That's what I hoped to see. Fingers crossed I think we have turned the corner.'

Hobbs was delighted with Lacdoudal's third in the Racing Post Chase on Saturday, but has all but ruled-out a Grand National bid with the gelding.

He said: 'He'll probably run next in the William Hill Chase and we'll take things from there.

'His owners are not that keen on the National in which 11st 4lb would be a lot of weight for a small horse like him to carry.

'I think the chances are he'll try to win the Betfred Gold Cup again.'

(C) PA Sport