Classy Grandouet should come of Age at Warwick

The Mayor Of Solihull Charity Fund Juvenile Hurdle gets proceeding underway at 12.40pm and, with a host of entries, there should be some competitive racing throughout the afternoon.

Six of the entries in the opener have tasted success over jumps already, including Kentucky Hyden from the Nicky Henderson yard who created a good impression when winning easily on his English debut at Sandown Park.

Aldopicgros won a bumper in France before joining trainer Paul Nicholls, but has been beaten in both his English hurdle races.

Newmarket trainer John Ferguson, who is having his best season to date, has three entries, all with experience of racing on the flat.

Henderson has entered Grandouet in the Age UK Solihull Beginners’ Chase and, despite blundering and unseating Barry Geraghty on his chasing debut in the race won by Hinterland, he should have too much class for his opponents here.

There are 25 entries in the day’s longest race, the Celebrating Solihull Handicap Chase over three miles and five furlongs with a mix of some in-form horses with recent wins to their name and others who have not tasted success for a long time.

Jayandbee and Merlin’s Wish are two of those in recent winning form who could go well again.

Timpo, a course winner over hurdles six years ago and whose last win came at Towcester in November 2011, looks a possibility from those who have something to find on latest form.

Peppa Pig will be putting in special appearances throughout the day at noon, 1.30pm and 3pm, giving younger racegoers the opportunity to meet her and have their picture taken.

Looking ahead to Sunday, general manager Huw Williams said: “Our Christmas jumps fixture is a wonderful way for families to get into the seasonal spirit.

“Children will be enchanted by our very special guests, Peppa Pig and Father Christmas, while the racing promises to provide a superb afternoon of exciting entertainment for everyone.”

Gates open at 10.40am and tickets are available to buy online at www.warwickracecourse.co.uk or by calling the booking hotline on 08445 793013.

Any racegoers who go along wearing their worst Christmas jumpers will get special half-price admission of only £10.