Ben Pauling’s High Bridge heads the weights for Saturday’s valuable Betfair Hurdle at Newbury racecourse

HIGH BRIDGE heads the field for Saturday's valuable Betfair Hurdle at Newbury.

All the leading contenders stood their ground and Ben Pauling's High Bridge will have to shoulder 11st 12lb if he runs.

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Ante-post favourite Lalor is still in contention while Nicky Henderson has five entered; Verdana Blue, Charli Parcs, Kayf Grace, Lough Derg Spirit and Jenkins.

Donald McCain could run Chti Balko and Waterlord but their participation will depend on the ground conditions.

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"It will very much be one or the other," said McCain.

"If the ground goes heavy again it will suit Chti Balko, but if it continues to dry up a bit that will very much suit Waterlord, so we've got one for each eventuality."

Divin Bere, Moon Racer, Misterton, Kalashnikov and Poppy Kay are other major contenders.