Balfours LLP And Lycetts Insurance Novices' Hurdle (GBB Race)

Bumper winner and translated that ability to hurdles, second at Hereford before going one better at Kempton (2m, good) on Boxing Day. Leading claims with further progress likely.

Uttoxeter bumper winner last term and off the mark at the third time of asking over hurdles in C&D novice in December. Has had wind surgery in the 3 months since (also tongue tied first time). Should have more to offer.

Runner-up sole outing in Irish point. Hinted at ability in a bumper and novice hurdle on first 2 starts under Rules. Unseated early latest. Probably more one for handicaps.

Fair on Flat (stays 1¼m) for Clive Cox but changed hands cheaply last autumn and has offered little in 2 hurdles for current yard.

Fairly useful Flat winner in Germany. Hinted at promise on his hurdle/yard debut at Sandown last month but disappointed with his finishing effort when only fifth at Huntingdon 4 weeks later.

Well held in a Bangor bumper last May and pulled up on 21f course hurdle debut 9 months later.

Runner-up both completed starts in Irish points (latest Jan 21). Betting should guide on hurdle debut.