NAUNTON Brook is set to bid for a repeat of last year’s win in the men’s open for the Lord Ashton of Hyde’s Cup as the curtain comes down on racing at Dunthrop, near Chipping Norton, on Sunday.

Willie Twiston-Davies, 17-year-old son of dual Grand National and Gold Cup-winning trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies and younger brother of jockey Sam, was in the plate as the gelding landed the four-mile marathon at the Heythrop Hunt meeting 12 months ago.

His potential rivals, among an entry of 22, for what is one of the sport’s four ‘classics’ include Marblehead, Worship The Stars and You Do The Math.

Racing has been held at Dunthrop since 1983, but financial considerations and a change to European farming regulations have prompted the closure with the Heythrop Hunt planning to move to a new course at Aldsworth, near Cirencester.

Herefordshire trainer-rider Sarah-Jayne Davies will no doubt be thinking of last year’s success with Upton Springs as he goes again in the AGA Ladies Open over three miles and five furlongs.

Likely opponents include Gidam Gidam, Cluthe Boy, The Hookie Bookie and Master Alf, who all have form which suggests the extended trip will suit.

Mount Benger, who was third in the men’s open last year and a winner already this season, should take all the beating in the PPORA Novice Riders race.

Spare Change, twice a runner-up this season, and Shannon Springs, who was second in this race last year under owner-rider Jennifer Mason, are also worth noting.

Racing starts at noon.