Trainer Philip Fenton faces drugs hearing

Trainer Philip Fenton is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday (Getty Images)

Philip Fenton, the trainer of the Irish Hennessy winner and Cheltenham Gold Cup third-favourite Last Instalment, is scheduled to appear at a Co Tipperary court on Thursday charged with the possession of banned substances, reported to be anabolic steroids.

The Irish Department of Agriculture has brought the case following an inspection of Fenton's yard in January 2012. Denis Egan, the chief executive of the Turf Club, said: "We are aware there is a case coming up. Once the case has concluded, we will take any appropriate action."

Fenton also trains top novice hurdler The Tullow Tank.