THE other Grade 2 contest on the Cheltenham card, the Betbright Dipper Novices’ Chase, attracted only four runners, but provided a stirring finish as Nicky Henderson’s Whisper, 11/4, took advantage of a mistake by 10/11 favourite Clan Des Obeaux and kept on gamely to hold his rallying rival. Whisper often excels around Cheltenham and Aintree and Davy Russell gave him a fine ride.

“We couldn’t do a thing with him last year, he just seemed to go missing,” Henderson said. “I do love him, though, because he’s so tough and game. He’s won two Aintree Hurdles and seems to have been around for ever but he’s novice chasing at nine.