Ronald Fletcher Baker Novice Stakes (GBB/GBBPlus Race)

A smart prospect who took a Newcastle maiden by 7l last time, improving substantially on his debut; effective at 10-11f and handles the going, though a seven-month absence is the one caveat — the form itself is strong and the trainer's record here counts.

His most recent outing here saw him struggle throughout in a novice, well beaten without threatening; ranked last on our figures and with everything to prove on the Flat, he needs a drastically improved showing to feature.

Caught out by a jumping error at a key stage in a hurdle at Cartmel on his most recent outing, which cost him his chance; switching back to Flat racing here with a bit to find on current evidence, effective over longer trips on the all-weather but questions remain.

Failed to see out 10f at Windsor on his latest start and has yet to show much on the track; major improvement is needed to figure here, and the form book offers little encouragement for his chances.

Positioned at the front, he should get a smooth passage from stall 3; well beaten on his debut at Goodwood 10 days ago but this is the type that often makes marked progress when eligible for handicaps — not without a chance if that holds true.