William Hill Lincoln (Heritage Handicap)

He wasn't at his very best last year for George Boughey, albeit he did finish third in the Listed Doncaster Mile over C&D (good to soft) on this card; now down to a mark 3lb lower than when runner-up in the John Smith's Cup at York (1m2f, good to soft) in July 2024 and his new trainer is a dab hand with topweights in big handicaps; goes well fresh and could have a big say.

Went close in the Britannia Handicap at Royal Ascot (1m, good to firm) last June on his fourth start; then absent until the Trial at Wolverhampton (8.6f, AW) three weeks ago, when he was fourth despite a slow start and having to come very wide in the straight; could play a leading role on the back of that eyecatching run, provided conditions suit (unraced on slow turf).

Won at Ascot (1m, soft) last September and very creditable fourth of 20 in another big-field handicap there (1m, good) in October; this 4yo course winner is unexposed over 1m and could have more to offer this season; chance.

Thrived in 7f handicaps last season when blinkers went on; however, he failed to shine when tackling 1m last term and reappears minus any headgear (tried cheekpieces when last seen; down the field); others preferred.

First past the post in the Spring Mile over C&D last March (good to soft; demoted due to interference) and showed even better form in the autumn (on soft/good); a career-best is needed from this 7yo but further improvement can't be ruled out and he has an excellent record at Doncaster; each-way player, in the expectation he's improved for his recent comeback run on AW.