Due to the extremely testing going, we have decided that Constitution Hill will not run in today’s Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Sandown because it would simply not be fair to race him under such extreme conditions on his first run of the season. It is too close to Boxing Day, and he can’t do both, so, all being well, he will now go straight to Kempton for the Christmas Hurdle.

Shishkin has also been withdrawn, along with Willmount from his intended engagement in the Listed Novices’ Hurdle

I will speak to JP with regard to the participation of Impose Toi and Chantry House, but the good news is that Jonbon will take his chance in the Tingle Creek. He has had a run so is fit and well and the ground is much more suitable on the Chase course.

It is very unfortunate, and we are all sorry they won’t be turning up, but we have to put the horses first; it’s as simple as that.