INGLIS DREVER put the seal on a Cheltenham treble for trainer Howard Johnson yesterday -and he immediately paid tribute to the North-East's part in the success.

The trainer - who sent Arcalis and No Refuge to victory earlier in the week -put the success down to the rugged Wear Valley landscape around his farm near Crook, County Durham, which helped Inglis Drever muster up the stamina to conquer Cheltenham's famous hill.

He said: "I knew he'd come up the hill. We've got one that's high and steep at home. When he's on form, he goes up our hill great. That's the secret about training our horses - going up steep hills. It seems to get their wind right and helps them be fit and healthy.''

Inglis Drever's win over French horse Baracouda in the Ladbrokes World Hurdle Trophy yesterday capped a trio of wins for horses trained by Johnson, ridden by jockey Graham Lee and owned by Graham Wylie, the millionaire co-founder of computer software company Sage.

The winning streak is bringing racing fans in Johnson's home town into the betting shops in droves.

John Styles, manager of the town's Ladbrokes, said takings were up about 20 per cent.

He said: "There has been a lot of interest because of him being at a local stables. Now all eyes are on Grey Abbey for the Gold Cup.''

Jim Allen, general manager of Sedgefield Racecourse, said the partnership is getting a lot of support. He said: "I think all of the staff here have backed at least one of their horses. Graham Wylie used to be a director here so we're really happy they've done well. It is fantastic for the North."

Mr Wylie said: "It's all down to Howard and to Graham. Howard's spent a lot of time getting the horses ready. He's done a brilliant job."

* Among Johnson's horses at Cheltenham today is Akilak in the 2pm race, which is co-owned by Alan Shearer. Also running under Graham Lee are Bewley's Berry (2.15pm), Grey Abbey (3.15pm) and Another Dude (5.20pm).