Vickers.Bet Handicap Chase

Two of his 3 wins in this sphere have been registered over C&D, the latest off this mark last spring. Back-to-form third when bidding to win that same handicap for the third year running last month (showed signs of heat stress post race) and a bold show is anticipated.

Made it 4-4 over fences here when landing a 23.8f handicap (heavy) in first-time cheekpieces in December. However, subsequent efforts at Chepstow and Perth have been poor and while the return to this course/change of headgear could spark a return to form, the drying ground is an additional concern.

Winner of a 4m hunter chase at Cheltenham last April and ran solid races in defeat on next 2 starts. Has failed to fire in a handful of appearances so far this year, though, and needs to bounce back.

Isn't the force of old but proved up to taking advantage of a falling mark in the Devon National at Exeter in February. Latest seventh in a big-field Cheltenham handicap (good) over this trip was creditable and claims down 2 lb here, particularly if he puts in a fluent round of jumping.

Best effort for a while when chasing Gwencily Berbas home in the Devon National at Exeter (30.7f, good) but, commensurate with his up-and-down profile, he failed to back that up at the same course next time.

Dual point winner who made it 13th time lucky under Rules when landing a 25f Warwick veterans' chase on debut for present yard in March. Pulled up at Wetherby since but he could have a part to play if able to bounce back here with Harry Cobden doing the steering.