A strong field looks certain for Sandown Park Racecourse this weekend, ahead of its two day jump horse racing fixture.

The sponsors have installed the Carl Llewellyn-trained Dempsey at 5-1 favourite for the Sunderlands Imperial Cup Handicap hurdle, worth more than £30,000 to the winner.

On paper, the nine-year-old appears well in off his current hurdles mark and looks on good terms with himself when notching an eighth career win when making all over course and distance in the competitive Fraser Steele HBLB Handicap Chase last month at Sandown Park.

Llewellyn said: "The ground conditions at present are a total unknown for the horse.

"I would much prefer the ground to be a little firmer but the horse is fit and well and could yet take the beating."

Trainer David Pipe has four entries including the 6-1 second favourite Gaspara and the joint third favourite at 8-1 of Laustra Bad. Farmer Brown, also at 8-1 is expected to make the journey from Pat Hughes' Co. Carlow base to take his chance.

The gelding took the eye when battling to victory at Leopardstown recently. His rider that day, Philip Carberry, oozed confidence and will be keen to partner the 6 year old again on Saturday. The Irish will be keen to retain the prize after Adrian McGuinness' Victram was took the prize 12 months ago.

Pat Hughes, trainer of Farmer Brown said: "Having run four times over hurdles recently, he surprised us all by winning last month at Leopardstown on heavy ground and he should be able to handle the ground this weekend at Sandown Park.

"Depending on how he performs will decide whether we put him forward for the Sunderlands £75,000 bonus."

At 10-1 with the sponsors, Gary Moore's Heathcote looks a lively contender and would be bidding to add another top handicap to his tally after tasting victory in Newbury's Totesport Trophy Hurdle.

Although described as something of a monkey by his trainer the five-year-old relished the soft underfoot conditions that day and also possesses solid course form having chased home Papini (who may again be in opposition) in January.

The gates open at noon with the first race on Sunderlands Imperial Cup Day at 2.05pm. To book tickets please call Sandown Park on 01372 470047 or visit sandown.co.uk.