Weatherbys nhstallions.co.uk Novices' Hurdle (GBB Race)

Debut bumper winner got off the mark with sights lowered in 2m Newcastle maiden last time, and this lightly raced, straightforward sort should go well again under a penalty.

Steadily progressive 6-y-o made it 2 wins from 3 starts at this track when narrowly seeing off an improver over C&D in November. Carries a penalty for that success but should be in the mix if resuming progress (has won fresh) following 5 months off.

Fell sole start in Irish points and looked in need of the experience in Warwick/Fakenham bumpers over the winter. Has undergone a breathing operation since, and the market should prove a good guide on hurdles debut.

Minor promise in bumpers last season but has shown little in either start over hurdles.

Having hinted at ability on bumper debut, was found to have an irregular heartbeat when pulled up on hurdles bow (150/1) at Hereford in January, and it's likely he'll need more time/distance.

Awtaad gelding. Half-brother to fair hurdler Elogio (2½m winner). Fairly useful winning handicapper on Flat (stays 1¾m) for Ed Walker (disappointing latest start in September) and needs a market check on hurdle debut for excellent new yard.

Fairly useful Flat performer has proved consistent since switched to hurdles, looking likely to land a second success in this sphere before an aggressive ride told late on at Stratford last time, and he's fancied to make another bold bid back down in trip.

Fair winning handicapper on Flat (stays 1¾m) for Jamie Osborne. Respiratory issue likely to have contributed to an unpromising hurdle debut at Taunton in December (since undergone breathing operation), but it's hard to be confident on the back of that.