Should make bold bid for the hat-trick after wins at Sedgefield in November and recently at Kelso. Runner-up has scored since so latest form looks strong and 4lb rise looks about right.
Won twice on easy ground in spring 2016 but was absent over two years before reappearing at Taunton last month on first start since wind op. Got very tired and was well beaten and has been eased 4lb. Any market support would be worth noting.
Has run well on both previous visits here, going close when second over 3m in December in soft ground. Returns following wind surgery and has prospects if op has indeed helped his breathing.
Caught the eye on first start for 17 months when staying on into fifth in Newbury 3m handicap hurdle. Would ideally prefer a shade further than this trip but if there is pace in the race he should be coming home well once again.
Won juvenile hurdle here lats term in heavy ground and went on to finish sixth in the 'Fred Winter' at the Cheltenham Festival three months later. Dropped 13lb this term after four moderate efforts and jury is out on whether he stays this trip
Yard 17% strike rate at this venue. Just touched off in Worcester 2m7f maiden hurdle in autumn 2017 so no stamina doubts and has hinted he retains abilty in two starts this term after long absence. Handicap bow for shrewd team.
Well and truly got his act together in late-summer with two wins from three starts at this trip. Not seen since October with connections likely having waited for decent ground. Raised 3lb but may not be at all far away.
First time tongue-tie for yard who has fine 23% strike rate here. Distant second over inadequate 2m last time on first start since wind surgery. Steps up in trip and should strip fitter so has decent claims.
Only win in 24 starts came two years ago at Market Rasen at around this trip. Went close here penultimate start off 2lb lower mark and again ran well over further last time out. Has each-way prospects.
Forecasts
Solo Saxophone (2/1), Ask Paddington (7/2), Sigurd (6/1), Desert Sensation (13/2), Arthur's Sixpence (9/1), Jack Lamb (11/1), Buster Edwards (12/1), Quids In (22/1), Belize (33/1)
This looks the trickier of the two divisions with plenty of horses holding fair claims. Narrow preference is for BUSTER EDWARDS whose connections have exercised extreme patience and who makes his handicap debut after hinting he could win a race or two. Desert Sensation caught the eye last time and could be a proper danger, while a bold show would not surprise from Ask Paddington, Jack Lamb and Arthur's Sixpence.