NEXT week at Cheltenham will seem a world away from Hereford, where I’m riding today.

The Festival being nearly upon us doesn’t affect my riding plans. It’s business as usual as far as I am concerned. I want to ride winners and that’s why I’m at Hereford today and Musselburgh tomorrow. They’ve all got chances.

The Bunnyman, who runs in the MansionBet Novices' Hurdle, was running well on his latest start before falling at the last. He’d actually jumped quite well up to that point, so I wouldn’t have any fears on that count, touch wood.

He’s related to Zamdy Man, who I know very well, so I’m looking forward to riding him. It might be a tricky race to win though as Esprit Du Large and Newtown Boy are rated in the 130s, and I don’t know if he’s at that level yet, but I could easily be wrong.

Adrrastos, who runs in the Central Roofing Handicap Chase, is a very straightforward horse, who likes to make the running.

I’ve ridden him a number of times, including a couple of wins last season, so know him well, and he’ll like the good ground. He can run well fresh - he’s been off for 501 days - while Jamie Snowden’s horses are in good form, so there’s a lot to like about him.

Fontsanta will appreciate the small field in the myracing.com For Cheltenham Tips Novices' Hurdle, as he likes to take his time in getting into a rhythm, which is a lot harder to do if you’re being crowded out in a big field.

He’s run well on both his starts and I fancy him in this.

I’m at Musselburgh tomorrow for one ride, Knockgraffon in the Watch Racing TV Now Handicap Chase.

This race looks tailor-made for him. He’s won a similar race twice on New Year’s Day in 2018 and 2017, and you’d have to be very hopeful. The one question mark is that he’s running off a career high mark.

To finish with, I’ve been asked to reel off some quickfire answers to get us in the mood for next week. Have a great Festival!

Festival banker? Boring answer, but it has to be Altior

Shortie who will struggle? He’s not that short, but Presenting Percy, given the last time we saw him over fences was when he won the RSA.

Long shot you are sweet on? Brewin'upastorm in the Ballymore.

Who will be leading jockey? Barry Geraghty has a great book of rides.

Who will be leading trainer? Gordon Elliott and Willie Mullins dominated last year, but I think Nicky Henderson is the man to beat.

Favourite thing about Cheltenham? The electric atmosphere. Everyone who steps foot at the racecourse feels it.

  • Aidan is sponsored by Racing TV, the only place to see all 28 races of the Cheltenham Festival. Please visit www.racingtv.com for more.