Allan Atkinson Handicap Hurdle

Isn't the most robust, but he ran right up to his best when 1¾-length second in a solid handicap for the grade over C&D last time (having won the corresponding event 12 months prior). Capable of running a big race off 2 lb higher.

Positively-ridden second in a handicap hurdle and chase when last seen in this sphere in winter 2024. Has gone backwards since his return (from 19 months off) on the Flat earlier this summer, though, and has plenty to prove back hurdling.

Front runner who was seemingly all the better for a change of yards when scoring readily over C&D on reappearance. Back on track returned to this course when 5½ lengths third (behind Jet Patrol) last time. Could get the run of the race off an unchanged mark here.

Showed improved form to get off the mark over C&D in March. Offered plenty in defeat since, latterly an encouraging comeback run when 3 lengths third in a good race for the grade at Cartmel. Leading claims off a relatively quick turnaround.

Landed his first handicap success in this sphere at Wincanton (2m) in November. Had looked to be working his way back to form before shaping as though amiss here (19f) in late-June. Good-value claimer booked and has each-way claims if back on song following 10-week break.

Cheap purchase who was unplaced in Irish points. Failed to improve for switch to handicap in first-time cheekpieces at Worcester (50/1) last time. Hard to imagine he'll fare much better with tongue strap added.

Beat a couple of next-time-out winners when doubling his tally over hurdles in a Uttoxeter handicap (2m) in May. Now 1 lb lower but didn't look in the form to capitalise when unseating at Worcester last time.

Backed up July's breakthrough success at Newton Abbot with a couple of placed efforts. Found his run of good form coming to a halt there last time, but does have a fair record under his returning jockey.

Modest Flat performer. Best effort over hurdles came when distant fourth in a weak juvenile hurdle over C&D last autumn. Looks to have plenty on at the weights 7 weeks on from his reappearance (struggling when fell) having had a breathing operation.

Long-standing maiden with little solid form. Back from 3-month absence here.