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Charlie Fellowes is putting together a shortlist of potential partners for Prince Of Arran after losing the services of regular rider Michael Walker for his Lexus Melbourne Cup challenge.

Walker told the Newmarket trainer this week that he was switching mounts to another British challenger in the shape of Dashing Willoughby.

The Andrew Balding-trained stayer is part-owned by Sir Owen Glenn, with whom Walker has an even more established association than he has with the horse he has ridden to second and third place in the last two Melbourne Cups, as well as winning the Geelong Cup and Lexus Stakes.

"I've had plenty of people show interest," said Fellowes. "I am putting a list together then I will pick who I think will suit the horse best. I don't think a decision will be made for a little bit yet.

"I've been pretty pleased with the uptake. Some pretty decent jockeys have put their hand up.

"There are a few things clouding the issues," the trainer added. "Not only are international jockeys not going to be there, even jockeys based in other states are going to find it difficult.

"Michael messaged me before it became public. He was very clear and said Sir Owen Glenn has been a huge supporter of his and he wouldn't have switched for any other owner but him. 

"Also Dashing Willoughby will be in Australia for a while whereas he knows Prince Of Arran comes back to England after the Melbourne Cup. I know it wasn't an easy decision and I completely understand."

Prince Of Arran entered quarantine on Wednesday ahead of his trip to Australia, where he is also likely to take in the Stella Artois Caulfield Cup.

"He had a canter around Side Hill yesterday and has settled in as a professional global traveller like him would," Fellowes said. "He is as happy as Larry."