Newt In Somerset Handicap Chase

Didn't kick on as expected over hurdles but found improvement since switched to the larger obstacles, scoring at fourth time of asking in Haydock handicap (19.9f, heavy) last month. 4 lb higher now but may have more to offer yet.

Won back-to-back handicaps last term and would have landed the hat-trick (back from 12 months off) but for unseating rider at last in handicap chase at Plumpton (25.7f, soft) 10 days ago. Can race off same mark here and holds strong claims bidding to land this for the second year running.

Posted career best, in first-time blinkers, when winning 9-runner handicap chase over C&D (heavy) 19 days ago, staying on well. 7 lb higher mark will make life tougher but he must enter calculations.

Forged clear to land a gamble at Ffos Las on return and placed all 3 subsequent starts, most recently finishing a solid third off this mark at Fontwell (26f), despite some shoddy jumping. Warrants respect.

Showed much-improved form in this sphere when runner-up at Hereford (25,2f) in January and backed that up with good third of 9 in Market Rasen handicap (23.9f, soft) 30 days ago. Likely to go well again.

Off the mark over fences when taking 8-runner handicap at Ffos Las (23.8f, heavy, 5/2) 35 days ago, pushed out. Just 3 lb higher here and not taken lightly.