Pipe hoping Mr Thriller can record another hit

Pop star Michael Jackson was today due to announce a series of live shows this summer at London's 02 Arena while, across London on Saturday, trainer David Pipe will be looking to his own Mr Thriller to extend his stable's record in the Paddy Power Imperial Cup at Sandown Park.

Pipe relies on Mr Thriller as well as Seven Is My Number from his initial entry of five as his yard bids to win the £70,000 two-mile hurdle contest for a sixth time in eight runnings.

Mr Thriller is unbeaten in two outings at Bangor and Fontwell since arriving from France and appears to be the stable's No1 contender after being backed down to 5-2 favourite since being available at 5-1 with the sponsors earlier this week.

Tom Scudamore, who has partnered the gelding for both victories, will be on board again.

He said: "He has been very impressive and I hope he's got a favourite's chance. Its one of the most competitive handicap hurdles of the season."

A field of 21 will face the starter with Pipe hoping for a third straight success after Gaspara and Ashkazar in the last two years, following victories for father Martin with Polar Red, Korelo and Medison.

Both Pipe horses have multiple entries at next week's Festival and one could pick up a £75,000 bonus if successful at both Sandown and Cheltenham.