Paxtons Serving Farmers Since 1853 Handicap Hurdle

Just 1-17 over hurdles but runner-up over C&D (good to soft) last month after a break and his lesser effort at Warwick 16 days later can be excused by the soft ground; conditions set to suit today; firmly in calculations.

Promising second at Wetherby (3m, soft) in November; hasn't kicked on from that but Southwell (2m4f, soft) four weeks ago was a step back in the right direction and he could build on it now that he is up in trip; also effective on good ground; not ruled out.

He's struggled on his last three starts but those were on soft/heavy going and he won off today's mark at Hexham (2m7f, good to soft) in November; could bounce back and play a leading role back on this better ground.

Runner-up at Carlisle (3m1f, soft) last month and perhaps the race came too soon when fourth to Dillarchie at Catterick (3m1f, good to soft) eight days later; probably okay on good ground; might not be far away.

Third, 1l behind runner-up Scudamore, over C&D (good to soft) last month then won at Catterick (3m1f, good to soft); has run well on good ground; she's gone up just 3lb for last time and could be bang there once more.