Betting Scene by Fred Done

THIS is the most exiting time of the year for me with the Cheltenham Festival taking centre stage.

The unofficial World Championship of National Hunt Racing starts on Tuesday with the feature race the Champion Hurdle, before Thursday's climax with the Gold Cup.

I've been offering 'Non Runner Money Back' for all ante-post bets placed on or after February 3, so my call centre and shops have seen plenty of action over the last few weeks.

The biggest single bet I've taken to date is £50,000 on Best Mate to win the Gold Cup at 7/4, while I'm holding fortunes for Rhinestone Cowboy in the Champion Hurdle.