Mike's Seventieth Birthday Celebration Handicap Chase

Without a win since 2022 when trained by Chris Down; unsuccessful in three points for new yard and beaten 45l at Hereford (2m5f, good) 15 days ago; hard to fancy.

Both wins when trained by Alan King; showed little on return from 404-day layoff at Leicester in January for new yard but much better when runner-up at Huntingdon (2m7f, good) last month; runs off the same mark and holds place claims at least.

Just the one win in 22 starts but three decent runs when placed prior to a below par effort when tailed off at Plumpton (3m1f, good to soft) last month; his poor win record does not inspire.

Got off the mark at Perth (3m, good) last August off 9lb lower mark when trained by Ella Pickard; two decent efforts when placed subsequently but was pulled up at Hexham in October when last seen; makes stable debut and worth a look in the betting.

Won for the third time over fences at Southwell (3m, good) last June off this mark; below that form in three runs subsequently but has age on his side and worth considering.