N&L Franklin Developments Handicap Chase

Three-time winner over hurdles last winter for Charles Byrnes and didn't need to improve to get off the mark over fences at Downpatrick (19.2f) on final start for that yard in August. Positive start for this stable when second at Doncaster back from a break 17 days ago and should remain competitive.

Pretty useful when at his best over hurdles, as he demonstrated with a decisive success off a 6 lb higher mark than this at Uttoxeter in February. First form over fences when fourth at Chepstow last month but still a long way off his hurdles form.

Hurdles winner in France in 2021. Made a low-key start for current connections last season but stepped up massively back over fences when justifying strong support at Lingfield on return and held off a promising sort when following up off 8 lb higher at Plumpton 2 weeks ago. The hat-trick beckons.

Won chase at Ludlow in February and good efforts in defeat 2 of next 3 starts. Off 8 months and others look better treated.

Placed all 6 starts in this sphere, including when good second at Chepstow latest. Should be in the mix again.