Heavitree Brewery PLC Handicap Hurdle

Completed a quick-fire hat-trick over hurdles at Ludlow in February but has found life tougher in 2 starts since, only fifth in a 6-runner handicap at Newcastle (17f, good) last week. Others preferred now back up in trip.

No threat in 2 maidens and a Grade 2 hurdle last season but landed a gamble on return/handicap debut at Chepstow (19.5f) in October before following up at Warwick (21f) a month later. A little bit flat on return from a 5-month break when sixth of 8 here (23f, good) 26 days ago, though.

Successful on bumper debut (when trained by his owner/rider) and also made a winning start in this sphere when taking 16-runner novice over 2m here last month. Lesser display when only fourth of 5 in a similar contest at Wincanton (21.4f) since, though, and opening mark doesn't look overly lenient.

Won a 4-runner event at Warwick in May on her final start for Jonjo & A.J. O'Neill but has made a low-key start for current yard. Bit to prove sporting blinkers for second time.

Runner-up over hurdles at Bangor on reappearance (form worked out well) and excuses on account of quick turnaround here next time. Decent fourth back at Wincanton in March but too keen to see his race out there (24.7f) 25 days ago. Now only 1 lb above last winning mark.

Hold-up sort who belatedly got off the mark when a ready winner of a 13-runner C&D handicap (good, 4/1) 10 days ago, Lots of to like about the way he travelled there and he can add to his good course record from 6 lb higher mark.