Alan King thinks Katchit may struggle to to give weight to Irish raider Lounaos in the JCB Triumph Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival. Katchit has been a revelation since turning his attentions to timber and has won five of his six starts, including two at Grade Two level.

However, King is fearful of Eoin Griffin's filly Lounaos, fourth behind Hardy Eustace and Brave Inca on her last start in the AIG Europe Champion Hurdle.

"He has won three round Cheltenham already and we would not be bothered what the ground is. He is very well," said King.

"But I think it will be a very tough ask trying to give the Irish filly (Lounaos) 7lb and I've also been very impressed with Punjabi.

"At least my fellow has been there though and he has got the experience round Cheltenham, which can count for a lot. We've had a great run with him and lets hope it continues for one more race at least," he said yesterday.

Nicky Richards put most of his Cheltenham Festival prospects through their paces with a workout after racing at Ayr yesterday. Although stable star Monet's Garden was missing from his squad, Irish Independent Arkle Trophy hope Faasel and totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup contender Turpin Green were in action.

The pair came down the straight in the gloomy conditions and were ridden by Tony Dobbin and Brian Harding respectively. Richards said: "I was really pleased with Turpin Green last time as he hated the ground and I think he has got a big race in him at some time. Faasel was a high-class hurdler and won well first time over fences. He is bouncing at the moment and I think he could surprise a few."

Richards also worked Royal & SunAlliance Chase hope According To John and Foxhunter entry Telemoss.