Snellings Norfolk National Handicap Chase

Back to winning ways in emphatic fashion at Wincanton (25.1f) last month and acquitted himself well behind a progressive sort in Kempton handicap (24f, good to soft) since. Shortlisted.

Below par latest but had got back on the scoreboard at Plumpton (25.7f) previously and is only 1 lb higher than when taking this prize home 12 months ago. Respected.

It all clicked for him over fences with cheekpieces added in the autumn, winning over shorter trips here and at Stratford. Not been in same form in a couple of recent outings, though, and percentage call is to look elsewhere.

Winner of a 4m hunter chase at Cheltenham in April of last year and ran solid races in defeat on next 2 starts. However, not been in same form since and plenty to prove now.

Bright start for this yard last spring, winning twice, including over this C&D on stable debut, and back on the up when scoring at Sedgefield (27f) in March. Not in same form at Cheltenham since but can't be ruled out.

Fair winning hurdler who has performed well over fences this year, winning at Wetherby before 3 good efforts in defeat, latest when second of 5 in handicap at Southwell (24.3f, good to soft, 9/4) 11 days ago, running on. Not taken lightly

Disappointed on final start for David Bridgwater last spring and has offered little in 3 starts for present yard. Continues to slide in handicap but remains hard to recommend. Wears first-time visor.

Admirably consistent in 2022, scoring twice and making the frame on other 8 starts. Returns from 6-month absence on a feasible mark and must enter calculations.

Three wins from 16 runs last season. Back to form when second of 7 in handicap chase at Perth (23.8f, good to soft) 12 days ago, going with enthusiasm. Longer trip no issue and likely to make presence felt.

Won 3 times in busy 2022-23 campaign. Little chance from out of the handicap at Sandown latest but remains on a workable mark and can't be discounted.