Dave Criddle Travel Handicap Hurdle

Made the frame in three maidens (2m-2m4f) last summer but he's failed to complete in last two starts including when back in a handicap at Plumpton (pulled up) in September; hurdling record now stands at 0-12 and has something to prove on his return; change of headgear.

Took advantage of a reduced mark when upped to 2m4f at Worcester (good) last July and he backed that up with a close third at Uttoxeter (2m4f, soft) 16 days later; drops back in trip after nine months off but he's only 1lb higher than last time and is respected on first run since rejoining Fergal O'Brien.

Tailed off and pulled up in two of his three qualifying runs but he showed ability when runner-up at Ludlow (2m, good) on his second start; returns after another short break and this unexposed 4yo needs watching in market on handicap debut.

Creditable third off 5lb higher at Market Rasen (2m, good) last June but he's not matched that form in three runs since and is now 0-11; others are more convincing.

Four-time Flat winner who got off the mark over hurdles when justifying favouritism in C&D handicap (good to firm; Galactic Glow second) two weeks ago; that was a comfortable success under a prominent ride and a 4lb rise looks fair; key player.