Early Bird Handicap

Proved his reappearance effort no fluke when again finding one too strong in 7-runner maiden at Ayr (6f, good to firm) just over a fortnight ago, giving the odds-on favourite something of a race. Can continue his upward trajectory now handicapping.

Won a maiden and nursery over 7f on the all-weather at Lingfield last year but yet to prove herself on turf, including when last of 8 in handicap at Yarmouth (7f, good to firm) on return 3 weeks ago. Best to look elsewhere.

Made a winning nursery debut at Hamilton (6f, good to firm) last July and shaped encouragingly after 7 months off when third of 8 in handicap at Newcastle (6f) just under 3 weeks ago, leaving the impression she's have been closer to the front 2 with a clearer run.

Belatedly off the mark in 9-runner nursery at Nottingham (5f, soft) on final outing last season, helped by the strong pace and her position on the stand rail. Reappears from 7 lb higher and should be suited by this return to 6f.

Got off the mark in 11-runner maiden at Chelmsford in November before following up in 7-runner nursery at Kempton (6f) the following month, benefiting from having a brisk gallop to chase to lead near finish. Only 2 lb higher for his return and this is just his second turf start.

Runner-up twice at 2 yrs and took a step forward after 7 months off when filling the same position in 9-runner novice at Pontefract (6f) last month. Didn't seem ideally suited by the drop to 5f switched to a handicap last time (in first-time cheekpieces) so can get back on track here.

Upped her game when getting off the mark in 9-runner handicap at Carlisle last September. Well held on both subsequent starts (stiff task latest) so watching brief advised on reappearance.

Progressive form for Ralph Beckett last autumn, culminating with 6f Wolverhampton novice success in October. Tailed off both starts in handicaps for new connections this season (poorly drawn latest) so can only be watched for now.

Ended his juvenile season in good style with success in a 6f Ayr maiden. Possibly working his way back to fitness this campaign but will need to leave his Hamilton effort on Sunday well behind. Drops in grade.

Showed a good attitude from the front when winning twice last year, though has seemingly been in the grip of the handicapper judged on her 4 runs since, most recently back on turf at Bath. Has dropped to just 1 lb above her last winning mark.

Runner-up twice at Newcastle late last year and can have his Wolverhampton effort excused in February, far too free in behind the winner. Looks a potential improver on return now heading into handicaps.