Litholexal Handicap Hurdle

The consistency of his summer 2024 campaign has long deserted him, the return to the mark of October's Exeter win (2m2f, good to firm) owed to three poor runs since; others convince more.

Last month's staying-on 5l fourth in a 2m novice here was given a boost by the third at Southwell two days ago; handy initial mark set against his bumper best; kept almost exclusively to good ground so far.

Career already subject to two significant interruptions, and offered little in a debuted tongue-tie when starting out for current connections here last month (2m7f, good).

Consolidated rather than improved upon previous best efforts during last season, despite the addition of cheekpieces; remains on a tempting mark, but significant rain wouldn't be welcomed.

Determined last-gasp Newcastle winner in February 2025 (2m1f, good to soft), and recent Hexham third on sole run since was much more promising than the 31l distance beaten might imply (rallied after late blunder); may be a case of whether this longer trip is within range now.