MALCOLM JEFFERSON is keen to let Urban Hymn “do the talking” ahead of the Steel Plate And Sections Novices’ Chase at Cheltenham today.

The extended two-and-ahalf- mile contest has a superb roll of honour, with Gold Cup heroes Denman and Imperial Commander, as well as Grands Crus, Dynaste and Taquin Du Seuil, previous winners.

Grade Two-winning hurdler Urban Hymn makes the journey south from Malton with strong claims, having come up narrowly short against Duke Of Navan in a beginners’ chase at Carlisle last month.

“He ran well at Carlisle, he’s in good order and we’re looking forward to running him down there,” said North Yorkshire trainer Jefferson.

“It looked a good race at Carlisle. Duke Of Navan is a good horse, he’s maybe a bit quicker than us and he got first run of us.

“Stepping back up to two and a half miles should suit us.

“We’ll let the horse do the talking.”

Urban Hymn features in a fascinating seven-strong field, with Splash Of Ginge sure to be popular.

The Nigel Twiston- Davies-trained six-year-old enjoyed a big pay-day in last season’s Betfair Hurdle at Newbury and got off the mark over fences over course and distance last month.

Owner John Neild said: “I’ve been down the yard and the horse is in great form. We were delighted with his last run as it dispelled a few doubts about him after a disappointing run at Perth. I’m sure he’ll come on for it.

“It’s a tasty race, and he has to give 8lb to some decent horses, but we’ve never ducked a challenge with him yet and we’re happy to give it a go.

“We’re going there confident in our horse, without being arrogant.

“The race he won last time was also won by Imperial Commander, so we’re hoping he can follow the same path.”

Philip Hobbs is doublehanded, with Champagne West surprisingly joined by Colour Squadron, who was expected to line up in the Paddy Power Gold Cup on Saturday.

Champagne West won three times over hurdles last season and was fourth in the Albert Bartlett at the Cheltenham Festival.