bet365 Handicap Chase (GBB Race)

Mixed record switched to fences last season but left reappearance behind when making all at Wetherby 4 weeks ago, unchallenged. 6 lb rise may prove to be on the lenient side given the manner of that success.

Won twice over hurdles last term, including on handicap bow at Sandown on final start. Failed to build on promising chase debut second when fourth next 2 starts but shaped as if still in form.

Won 3 on the bounce last season but failed to fire last 2 starts after a decent return at Haydock. Eased 3 lb at least.

Showed improved form switched to front-running tactics last season, landing a hat-trick over C&D between May and November. Below form since but has dropped to a tempting mark and latest third here was a step back in the right direction.

Veteran who has been lightly raced since scoring at Wetherby last winter but ran well after 11 months off when third at Lingfield in December. Unseated too far out to suggest how he would have fared at Wetherby next time and unsuited by emphasis on speed at Doncaster since.

Lightly-raced hurdler who made a bold bid to land a touch when collared close home at Hexham on return. Well held at Carlisle next time but shaped well making his chasing debut in a first-time tongue strap when fourth at Newcastle. Entitled to build on that but he's 2 lb out of the handicap here.