David Pipe is fearful of the Irish raiding party when Moon Racer takes aim at the Weatherbys Champion Bumper at the Cheltenham Festival next Wednesday.

The Pond House handler has high hopes for the six-year-old, who preserved his unbeaten record with a runaway success at Cheltenham in October.

Pipe is, however, wary of the Irish runners who traditionally do so well in the final race on day two of the Festival.

"He's got the Irish contingent to deal with but we've kept him for the race," he told the Times.

"He was very impressive last time and is in good form."