CRS & Palfinger UK Handicap Hurdle

Won both completed starts as a novice hurdler (outfaced in the Supreme other outing) and turned in his best effort of this season when gambled on at Taunton last month, although finished only fourth of 6 having again proved pretty underwhelming when asked to battle. Stamina to prove.

Ran out a decisive winner at Catterick and Ayr (both at around 2½m) at the end of last year. First poor run this term over hurdles 3 weeks ago but nudged back down 2 lb and his overall profile over the smaller obstacles is good.

Front runner who won 7 times in a prolific 2021-22 campaign and another 2 victories this term at Plumpton. Shaped as if still in good heart in the Sandown mud 3 weeks ago and wouldn't dismiss for in-form yard.

Pretty useful form in this sphere a couple of seasons back but not firing of late. Headgear removed and stamina to prove up in trip.

Responded well when narrowly prevailing in 19f Taunton handicap at the start of the year and, with cheekpieces refitted, was a good second to classy winner here (21.4f) last time. One to consider back down in trip.

Back thriving again since returned to hurdles (building up good record in this sphere), easily winning 21.6f Exeter handicap 17 days ago. 9 lb rise fair given manner of that victory and he holds strong claims.