Encore Educational For Early Years Supplies Handicap Chase (Go North Red Rum Qualifier) (GBB)

Good-ground hunter chase winner; returned from break with two good handicap runs in November (both 3m, soft) but his next two runs were disappointing and he arrives here with a point to prove.

Made very good progress in second half of last year, with the last two of his four wins gained over C&D (soft; also suited by good); returned from ten-week break with very respectable effort in 0-130 grade at Carlisle (3m, good to soft) last month and might still be on the upgrade.

0-8 over fences but made the frame three consecutive times towards end of last year, perhaps most notably when third of ten at Lingfield (2m6f, good) on second occasion; contender if suited by this new trip.

Just did enough to win over hurdles at Taunton (3m, good; refitted cheekpieces) in December and bettered that form when scoring by over 6l on chasing debut at Fontwell (2m3f, soft) the following month; still unexposed over staying trips and over fences; respected.

Five chase wins, the latest off 5lb lower at Hexham (3m, good) in October; creditable second to very progressive rival at Wetherby (3m, good) on next outing but form has slumped since (hurdling last time).