Southern Cranes & Access Ltd Novices' Handicap Hurdle (GBB Race)

Useful Flat performer who made good start to hurdling career in the autumn, including when going close in a Cheltenham novice (2m4f, good to soft; has won on good ground); flopped at Ascot (2m5f, good) in November but has had a break since and retains potential now in his first handicap hurdle.

Irish bumper winner (yielding) who followed up on hurdle/stable debut at Uttoxeter (2m, heavy) in December, and he was disputing the lead and clear of the rest when falling at the final flight on handicap debut at Doncaster (2m, good to soft) last time; the winner has followed up off 6lb higher so a 4lb rise for this fellow may well prove lenient; every chance he'll stay.

7yo who has a fair bit of experience but has been progressive for a new yard this term, making it two wins from his last three runs (2m3f/2m5f, good/good to soft) when scoring at Warwick last time; entitled to respect.

Good-ground bumper runner-up who improved with each of his first four runs over hurdles, easily winning a maiden here (2m, soft) in February; pulled up in the competitive EBF Final at Sandown (2m4f, soft) since and needs to prove his stamina, but pedigree provides hope; not written off.

Listed bumper winner who scored at Hereford (2m3f, heavy) in February on his third handicap start and was a close second to Mount Anglesby (2m5f, good to soft) four weeks ago; this 6yo could continue to progress now things are starting to click; possible contender in first-time cheekpieces.