TIM Carey of Tullaghansleek Stud reports strong interest from breeders in Valirann, who will stand at the Co Westmeath stallion farm this year. The French-bred horse, who was a champion stayer, has been making headlines in the past month following big race wins for Lecky Watson, Potters Charm and Val Dancer.

Trained by Willie Mullins, Lecky Watson has won both his starts over fences - including a Grade 3 contest - and has Grade 1 entries at the Dublin Racing Festival and Cheltenham.

Potters Charm is already a Grade 1 winner, having run away with the Formby Novices’ Hurdle at Aintree after Christmas. Trained by Nigel Twiston-Davies, he is one of the favourites for the Turners Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham. Val Dancer ran out a comfortable winner of the Welsh National at Chepstow and is being aimed at Aintree by trainer Mel Rowley.