MARK JOHNSTON is awaiting a final decision from the owners of William Hill Lincoln Handicap top weight Celestial Key before priming the six year old for a possible crack at the Champion Hurdle.

"I am quite aware that it could be considered bandwagon jumping after the success of a novice (Alderbrook) last season. But Celestial Key is the right age, tough and very sound and I certainly wouldn't discount the possibility that the horse is good enough," said Johnston yesterday afternoon.

"I would absolutely relish the prospect of training him for the Champion Hurdle. We have all the facilities here that Micky Hammond has for instance. Although I'm not sure whether the owners might want to move him to a jumping yard if they decide to go for Cheltenham."

Celestial Key was a much improved miler towards the end of a season which saw him register wins at Thirsk, Haydock, Newbury and Newmarket.

Johnston voiced his one doubt when discussing the trip. It might be a problem, but as I said before, he is the right age and is very tough."