Back A Winner - Birchwood Kia Chichester Handicap Hurdle

Had looked promising over fences but failed to fire when pulled-up on most recent chase outing. Ran better on second hurdles outing of the season when fifth of 9 at Chepstow (19.4f). Chance if he can build on that.

Tricky sort caught the eye when fourth of 9 at Ascot (24.4f, good to soft) in November, subject of a stewards' inquiry having been left with too much to do. Typically flattered to deceive when runner-up at Ludlow (23.8f), left in front sooner than ideal. Capable but comes with risks attached.

Off the mark here this time last year. Landed a double in novice/selling company last October, the latter a workmanlike success at Stratford (18.7f). More on her plate back in handicap company but still warrants respect in bid for hat-trick.

Runner-up at Huntingdon on Tuesday prior to winning comfortably at Ffos Las (20f) on Thursday, travelled with more purpose than sometimes the case before going clear under hands and heels. Should hold every chance off the same mark if none the worse for those exertions.

Fairly useful chaser at his best but it's been 3 years since his latest success. Found things too competitive in a 0-120 back over hurdles at this track last month. Down in class but needs more to get his head back in front.

4-time hurdle winner failed to fire when last seen finishing below form seventh of 12 in handicap hurdle at Hereford (25.5f, good) in November 2023. Back down to his last winning mark but remains to be seen if he can capitalise on that following an 18-month absence.

Well held in 2 bumpers but sprung a 25/1 surprise on hurdles debut here (17.7f, soft) in December. Back on track when runner-up at Plumpton (20.5f, good) last month prior to falling at the second hurdle returned to this track 18 days ago. Improvement needed in this company.