What would be your earliest memory of the Cheltenham Festival?

My earliest memory of the Festival is Istabraq winning his first Champion Hurdle in 1998 with Charlie Swan on board. Aidan O’Brien trained him so that was a big thing. I was five and I can remember sitting down at home watching it.

What has been your favourite moment at Cheltenham?

I suppose Band Of Outlaws winning the Fred Winter a few years ago for Joseph, that was a big one. I was very pleased, it was a great feeling. Hopefully I’ll get to feel it again this year.

What has been your most disappointing moment at Cheltenham?

I’m good at blocking out the disappointments thankfully. It would have to be High Definition last year in the Supreme Novices’, I thought he’d run a big race but he didn’t run great.

Do you have a favourite restaurant or pub that you like to go to in Cheltenham?

No, there is one nice place but I can’t remember what it’s called. I wouldn’t be one for going out much.

Have you ever had any travel problems getting to and from Cheltenham?

I used to go over on the Tuesday morning but I go over on the Sunday night now. I always send my gear in the lorries with the horses. I find it easier getting to Cheltenham than to most places.

Have you ever been stopped from entering an enclosure at Cheltenham because you didn’t have your badge?

Surprisingly not actually, I usually talk my way into wherever I want to go.

Have you got a favourite spot to watch racing at the Festival when you’re not riding?

I just watch it in the weigh room. There’s a nice tea room, so I watch in there and wait for my next ride.

Have you got a favourite song or artist that you listen to that gets you in the zone for a big race?

I listen to a lot of music when I’m driving to the races. I want to be calm before a big race and I like The Wolfe Tones.