3.30 BETWAY QUEEN MOTHER CHAMPION CH HENDERSON’S TIOR DE FORCE

If anywhere near his best, the brilliant eightyear-old will take some stopping in his quest for a third Cheltenham Festival triumph after the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle in 2017 and the Arkle Trophy 12 months ago.

After five straight wins over hurdles two seasons ago, Nico de Boinville’s (right) mount racked up a six-strong sequence over the larger obstacles last term.

His return to the fray this winter was delayed by a breathing issue – Altior made a noise when being prepared for the Tingle Creek at Sandown in December.

But, having gone under the knife, the gelded son of High Chaparral showed his customary brilliance in dispatching Politologue, the horse who won the Tingle Creek in his absence, by four lengths. Although reckoned by his trainer to be happier on better ground, Altior enjoys a class edge over his opponents and should justify his place at the head of the market.

It’s of huge interest that Douvan, who had his colours lowered when the 2-9 favourite for the Champion Chase 12 months ago, returns for his first outing since.

The bush telegraph from Willie Mullins’ Closutton yard is that the eight-yearold, announced as finished for the season in December but chosen by Ruby Walsh in preference to is firing again.

But the latter’s form this winter entitles him to a medal, while in front when coming down in Altior’s Arkle, and threetime Grade 1 winner

make the most appeal of the outsiders.

Altior has recovered from an injury scare