BETTING fever has hit Worcestershire, with thousands of pounds set to be placed on a Gold Cup win for the county's favourite and last year's winner - Best Mate.

The bay's bid to become the first horse since L'Escargot in 1971 to win one of racing's top trophies two years in a row, has gripped many punters in the region.

One bookmakers joked that he will even have to "sell his house" if the eight-year-old is victorious at Cheltenham tomorrow, repeating last year's famous win for the popular Callow End owner Jim Lewis.

Colin Francis from Newtown Racing in Wells Road said Worcester punters were gambling on another win and that business had been booming.

"There has only being one talking point in the shop all month and that's a win for Best Mate this Thursday," said Mr Francis. "Everyone has massive respect for Mr Lewis since he brought the Gold Cup home last year.

"I wouldn't like to say how much has been bet, but its been massive. I'll be selling my house if he wins" he quipped.

Last year, city bookies reported a boom for business for the three-day festival.

But history and short odds on the favourite have put some punters off a Best Mate flutter.