Ladbrokes Get Rewarded With Ladbucks Chester Plate Handicap (GBBPlus Race)

Went close on reappearance at Kempton (2m, AW) last month and got off the mark on turf at Ripon (2m, good) a fortnight ago, digging deep to repel Surrey Belle by a head; solid contender under a 3lb penalty.

Continues to drop down the weights and perhaps the return of cheekpieces will be a plus (replacing a visor), but this 8yo failed to shine from last June onwards and this is his first run since January; something to prove.

Disappointing at Southwell just 12 days ago; however, a good case can be made on his previous form as he won easily at York last October when back up to 2m (soft), and stayed on well for second over 1m6f at Southwell (AW) on his reappearance; versatile ground-wise; could bounce back with big run.

Won at York (2m, good to soft) last July and just 2lb higher today; could improve for recent return at Ripon but good performances were scarce last season and slow ground, which seems preferable, is unlikely to prevail.

The vast majority of last year was disappointing; however, perhaps first time up will be the time to catch him as he reappeared with a good third in this 12 months ago; now 12lb lower; could be dangerous.