Virgin Bet Novices' Limited Handicap Chase (GBB Race)

Won on chase debut at Fakenham (2m, good to soft) in October; creditable efforts in defeats in strong novice handicaps on next three starts before resuming winning ways in a small field at Huntingdon (2m, heavy) last month; 7lb higher in a more competitive race now but further progress can't be ruled out with this yard.

Won his first three chases (2m-2m4f on good/soft); lost his unbeaten record over the larger obstacles when only second of three at 4-7 at Aintree on Boxing Day but it wasn't a true test as the fences in the home straight were omitted due to a low sun; no surprise were he to resume his progression back from an 11-week break.

Two wins over hurdles (good/yielding); useful form in defeat over fences this season, cutting out a lot of the running before fading into third over the extended 2m4f here (good to soft) last time; shaped similarly over 2m3f at Doncaster in December and this slightly shorter trip could suit.

Has enjoyed an excellent campaign, winning three times over hurdles in the autumn and also successful in handicaps at Lingfield (2m, good) and Plumpton (2m1f, soft) on his first two starts over fences; freshened up since a lesser run at Newbury over Christmas.

Within 1lb of the mark he lowered with a 7lb claimer up in this race two years ago (good); latest win came under Isabelle Ryder in a Wincanton handicap chase in November (2m4f, good) and typically consistent either side of that, if perhaps more compelling over intermediate trips nowadays.