Promising third in a 16 runner handicap hurdle over 2m3f at Taunton (good-to-soft) last time out. Leading contender stepping up in distance with tongue tie worn for the first time that day retained.
Won twice since returning to Rules racing including by 9L over an extended 2m7f in a handicap hurdle at Fakenham (good-to-soft) in December. Visor worn for the first time that day retained since including when third at Catterick (good) last time.
Disappointing in four starts over hurdles since joining this stable including when beaten 48L on heavy ground over an extended 2m3f at Ayr in November. Probably best watched upped in distance following a break.
Broke his maiden when winning a handicap hurdle over an extended 2m7f at Uttoxeter (soft) in December. Promising amateur jockey retains the ride and he is one to note following a 5lb rise in the weights.
15 race maiden finished 24L third in a 2m5f novices' handicap hurdle at Sedgefield (good-to-soft) last time out. Likely to find a few too good racing from out of the handicap.
Forecasts
Telson Barley (10/11), Midnight Queen (9/4), Oliver's Island (9/2), Hero's Story (12/1), Millrose Bell (33/1)
Top weight TELSON BARLEY can handle this step up in distance to register a victory in the concluding novices' handicap hurdle. The selection ran well in a competitive event last time and can see off Midnight Queen who stays well and was the winner of her penultimate outing while third place can go to Oliver's Island who recorded his first victory when winning last time.