It is entirely plausible to build a solid case for a number of these runners in an open looking contest. Spanish Fleet was runner up in this race in 2016 (Tikkandemickey fourth), and whilst he's not won in absolutely ages (fences maiden) he saves his best efforts for Carlisle. Both Achill Road Boy and Dartford Warbler return as narrowly beaten recent runners up, whilst Un Guet Apens is well handicapped on the pick of his chasing form for a trainer back amongst the winners of late (James Ewart). However, with the unfortunate Lucy Alexander once more on the sidelines, CALIVIGNY sees his recent 2lb rise effectively negated via the 3lb claim of stand-in rider Grant Cockburn. The Nick Alexander trained eight-year-old posted a most taking effort (from off the pace) when getting to within 1L of the gallant front-runner Never Up over C&D on his seasonal reappearance last month. Slightly less testing ground conditions this afternoon will play to the strengths of Calivigny, and that form appears rock-solid with the third placed horse, the improving Western Jo, a game winner at Hexham on Friday.

1. Calivigny
2. Spanish Fleet
3. Un Guet Apens