Bathtime For Rupert

great work with Nakadam - lovely price as well
 

All prices Bet365:
12.30 Ffos Las - 1pt e/w Istorius @ 16/1
I backed this one on its debut for the yard and over hurdles last time and although the bare result tells you he was beaten out of sight, he was given an easy time in the saddle on his first run for more than 400 days and it was on testing ground which exaggerated the losing margin. Was sent off at 8/1 and did go well enough for quite a long way before running out of steam as he was entitled to do. Should know more now and be fitter for that outing and could be a good deal better now on the promise showed on the flat overseas.
12.45 Hexham - 1pt e/w Turtle Wars @ 8/1
I think there's got to be some question marks over those at the head of the market on ground conditions and current wellbeing so I'm happy to take a chance on James Moffatt's runner who typically runs well for all this trip would be on the sharp side for him. That said, he'll certainly see it out well and recent races at Hexham have been gruelling to say the least. If not getting too far behind, I'd expect him to be staying on well at the business end and hopefully that will suffice today. 
2.30 Hexham - 1pt e/w Nakadam @ 12/1
Was in the process of running a good race in this contest 12 months ago when coming to grief and ran a solid race over shorter when last seen. Is capable fresh, off a fair mark and we know will handle conditions better than most here. It's going to take a lot of getting and this one looks a prime contender to gain compensation for last year at an appealing price.
2.40 Warwick - 2pts win Star of Rory @ 9/2
Still looks fairly handicapped on a couple of runs last season including when a 7 length second to a progressive, well-handicapped horse and then when winning well a couple of starts later. Three miles just stretched his stamina inbetween but shaped with promise in a hot race at Cheltenham on seasonal reappearance and this is much easier. Conditions suit and with that run under his belt, should take the beating.
2.50 Ffos Las - 1pt e/w Broughtons Admiral @ 10/1
Was held in a class 2 race when last seen but that came after a lengthy absence and interestingly it was a similar story last year when beaten when falling on seasonal reappearance before winning easily a couple of months later. Has had a breather since, as he did last year, and the blinkers return under ideal conditions. This is an easier race and looks to hold sound claims when others in this field may not handle conditions as well as him. 
3.15 Warwick - 1pt e/w Theatre Guide @ 12/1
This horse has always had a place in my heart having followed him for years after winning a bumper at Chepstow in 2011. He's an old boy now at 13 but still has ability and shaped better than the bare result at Aintree last time having made some healthy progress towards the business end of the race. Ended up held but can take a couple of runs to find full fitness and could just be primed to go better now. Conditions are fine, he ran well at the end of last season so you don't have to go too far back for his last piece of form and he's worth chancing as outsider of the field.

All prices Bet365:
12.30 Ffos Las - 1pt e/w Istorius @ 16/1
I backed this one on its debut for the yard and over hurdles last time and although the bare result tells you he was beaten out of sight, he was given an easy time in the saddle on his first run for more than 400 days and it was on testing ground which exaggerated the losing margin. Was sent off at 8/1 and did go well enough for quite a long way before running out of steam as he was entitled to do. Should know more now and be fitter for that outing and could be a good deal better now on the promise showed on the flat overseas.
12.45 Hexham - 1pt e/w Turtle Wars @ 8/1
I think there's got to be some question marks over those at the head of the market on ground conditions and current wellbeing so I'm happy to take a chance on James Moffatt's runner who typically runs well for all this trip would be on the sharp side for him. That said, he'll certainly see it out well and recent races at Hexham have been gruelling to say the least. If not getting too far behind, I'd expect him to be staying on well at the business end and hopefully that will suffice today. 
2.30 Hexham - 1pt e/w Nakadam @ 12/1
Was in the process of running a good race in this contest 12 months ago when coming to grief and ran a solid race over shorter when last seen. Is capable fresh, off a fair mark and we know will handle conditions better than most here. It's going to take a lot of getting and this one looks a prime contender to gain compensation for last year at an appealing price.
2.40 Warwick - 2pts win Star of Rory @ 9/2
Still looks fairly handicapped on a couple of runs last season including when a 7 length second to a progressive, well-handicapped horse and then when winning well a couple of starts later. Three miles just stretched his stamina inbetween but shaped with promise in a hot race at Cheltenham on seasonal reappearance and this is much easier. Conditions suit and with that run under his belt, should take the beating.
2.50 Ffos Las - 1pt e/w Broughtons Admiral @ 10/1
Was held in a class 2 race when last seen but that came after a lengthy absence and interestingly it was a similar story last year when beaten when falling on seasonal reappearance before winning easily a couple of months later. Has had a breather since, as he did last year, and the blinkers return under ideal conditions. This is an easier race and looks to hold sound claims when others in this field may not handle conditions as well as him. 
3.15 Warwick - 1pt e/w Theatre Guide @ 12/1
This horse has always had a place in my heart having followed him for years after winning a bumper at Chepstow in 2011. He's an old boy now at 13 but still has ability and shaped better than the bare result at Aintree last time having made some healthy progress towards the business end of the race. Ended up held but can take a couple of runs to find full fitness and could just be primed to go better now. Conditions are fine, he ran well at the end of last season so you don't have to go too far back for his last piece of form and he's worth chancing as outsider of the field.

All prices Bet365:
12.30 Ffos Las - 1pt e/w Istorius @ 16/1
I backed this one on its debut for the yard and over hurdles last time and although the bare result tells you he was beaten out of sight, he was given an easy time in the saddle on his first run for more than 400 days and it was on testing ground which exaggerated the losing margin. Was sent off at 8/1 and did go well enough for quite a long way before running out of steam as he was entitled to do. Should know more now and be fitter for that outing and could be a good deal better now on the promise showed on the flat overseas.
12.45 Hexham - 1pt e/w Turtle Wars @ 8/1
I think there's got to be some question marks over those at the head of the market on ground conditions and current wellbeing so I'm happy to take a chance on James Moffatt's runner who typically runs well for all this trip would be on the sharp side for him. That said, he'll certainly see it out well and recent races at Hexham have been gruelling to say the least. If not getting too far behind, I'd expect him to be staying on well at the business end and hopefully that will suffice today. 
2.30 Hexham - 1pt e/w Nakadam @ 12/1
Was in the process of running a good race in this contest 12 months ago when coming to grief and ran a solid race over shorter when last seen. Is capable fresh, off a fair mark and we know will handle conditions better than most here. It's going to take a lot of getting and this one looks a prime contender to gain compensation for last year at an appealing price.
2.40 Warwick - 2pts win Star of Rory @ 9/2
Still looks fairly handicapped on a couple of runs last season including when a 7 length second to a progressive, well-handicapped horse and then when winning well a couple of starts later. Three miles just stretched his stamina inbetween but shaped with promise in a hot race at Cheltenham on seasonal reappearance and this is much easier. Conditions suit and with that run under his belt, should take the beating.
2.50 Ffos Las - 1pt e/w Broughtons Admiral @ 10/1
Was held in a class 2 race when last seen but that came after a lengthy absence and interestingly it was a similar story last year when beaten when falling on seasonal reappearance before winning easily a couple of months later. Has had a breather since, as he did last year, and the blinkers return under ideal conditions. This is an easier race and looks to hold sound claims when others in this field may not handle conditions as well as him. 
3.15 Warwick - 1pt e/w Theatre Guide @ 12/1
This horse has always had a place in my heart having followed him for years after winning a bumper at Chepstow in 2011. He's an old boy now at 13 but still has ability and shaped better than the bare result at Aintree last time having made some healthy progress towards the business end of the race. Ended up held but can take a couple of runs to find full fitness and could just be primed to go better now. Conditions are fine, he ran well at the end of last season so you don't have to go too far back for his last piece of form and he's worth chancing as outsider of the field.

All prices Bet365:
12.20 Southwell - 1pt e/w Blackcurrent @ 20/1
Poor race and I think at the price it's worth chancing Blackcurrent. Has shown quite consistent form on the all-weather in the past off higher marks and has a further 5lbs taken off his back today. Runs Southwell pretty well in modest affairs and although below par when last seen in July, has a solid record when fresh and the break might have done a bit of good so returning off a featherweight, looks better than a 20/1 shot.
1.03 Fakenham - 2pts win Top Up The Fashion @ 9/2
Ran really well here on seasonal reappearance two starts back and lost ground at a crucial point in a better race at Kempton last time. This smaller field can help, has cheekpieces added today and it's a weaker race to boot. Loves good ground and I think if its jumping holds together can land this contest. 
2.20 Southwell - 1pt e/w Paradise on Earth @ 14/1
Showed some decent novice form last year before flopping on soft when last seen but I think we can forgive that and its efforts on the all-weather were promising. Didn't quite get home over 1m2f in a couple of efforts when still running well but there's plenty of speed in the pedigree and it's no great surprise to see a return to shorter for a new yard. Blinkers are on, is fairly handicapped on a couple of runs and if fit enough, could outrun the odds from a positive ride (I hope)>
3.50 Southwell - 0.5pts e/w Jessie Allan @ 80/1
This one is a long shot but there are bits and pieces of form in this one's book and it's plausible that the fibresand could play to her strengths. She'll need to keep tabs on them early here which is a concern but is off a featherweight here and the long straight ought to suit. Southwell is a unique test and on her first start here, I just think she's worth chancing at colossal odds as she has ability to win lowly races when the cards fall right.

All prices Bet365:
12.20 Southwell - 1pt e/w Blackcurrent @ 20/1
Poor race and I think at the price it's worth chancing Blackcurrent. Has shown quite consistent form on the all-weather in the past off higher marks and has a further 5lbs taken off his back today. Runs Southwell pretty well in modest affairs and although below par when last seen in July, has a solid record when fresh and the break might have done a bit of good so returning off a featherweight, looks better than a 20/1 shot.
1.03 Fakenham - 2pts win Top Up The Fashion @ 9/2
Ran really well here on seasonal reappearance two starts back and lost ground at a crucial point in a better race at Kempton last time. This smaller field can help, has cheekpieces added today and it's a weaker race to boot. Loves good ground and I think if its jumping holds together can land this contest. 
2.20 Southwell - 1pt e/w Paradise on Earth @ 14/1
Showed some decent novice form last year before flopping on soft when last seen but I think we can forgive that and its efforts on the all-weather were promising. Didn't quite get home over 1m2f in a couple of efforts when still running well but there's plenty of speed in the pedigree and it's no great surprise to see a return to shorter for a new yard. Blinkers are on, is fairly handicapped on a couple of runs and if fit enough, could outrun the odds from a positive ride (I hope)>
3.50 Southwell - 0.5pts e/w Jessie Allan @ 80/1
This one is a long shot but there are bits and pieces of form in this one's book and it's plausible that the fibresand could play to her strengths. She'll need to keep tabs on them early here which is a concern but is off a featherweight here and the long straight ought to suit. Southwell is a unique test and on her first start here, I just think she's worth chancing at colossal odds as she has ability to win lowly races when the cards fall right.

All prices Bet365:
12.20 Southwell - 1pt e/w Blackcurrent @ 20/1
Poor race and I think at the price it's worth chancing Blackcurrent. Has shown quite consistent form on the all-weather in the past off higher marks and has a further 5lbs taken off his back today. Runs Southwell pretty well in modest affairs and although below par when last seen in July, has a solid record when fresh and the break might have done a bit of good so returning off a featherweight, looks better than a 20/1 shot.
1.03 Fakenham - 2pts win Top Up The Fashion @ 9/2
Ran really well here on seasonal reappearance two starts back and lost ground at a crucial point in a better race at Kempton last time. This smaller field can help, has cheekpieces added today and it's a weaker race to boot. Loves good ground and I think if its jumping holds together can land this contest. 
2.20 Southwell - 1pt e/w Paradise on Earth @ 14/1
Showed some decent novice form last year before flopping on soft when last seen but I think we can forgive that and its efforts on the all-weather were promising. Didn't quite get home over 1m2f in a couple of efforts when still running well but there's plenty of speed in the pedigree and it's no great surprise to see a return to shorter for a new yard. Blinkers are on, is fairly handicapped on a couple of runs and if fit enough, could outrun the odds from a positive ride (I hope)>
3.50 Southwell - 0.5pts e/w Jessie Allan @ 80/1
This one is a long shot but there are bits and pieces of form in this one's book and it's plausible that the fibresand could play to her strengths. She'll need to keep tabs on them early here which is a concern but is off a featherweight here and the long straight ought to suit. Southwell is a unique test and on her first start here, I just think she's worth chancing at colossal odds as she has ability to win lowly races when the cards fall right.

All prices Bet365:
1.30 Leicester - 1pt e/w Agent Valdez @ 9/1
This one has had quite a few excuses since winning an Irish point including when running on soft ground which seems to not suit as well as a sounder surface based on his results. Best efforts have come on top of the ground and was a good 2nd over hurdles behind a well handicapped horse two starts back. Shaped as if in need of the run last time and now goes chasing with conditions to suit. Is a half brother to decent chaser Bandsman and if jumping, can go well today.
2.10 Wolverhampton - 1pt e/w Stoney Lane @ 8/1
Richard Whittaker's runner is coming down the weights and I think this is the most reasonable assignment he's faced for a while. Won at Wetherby in May 2019 over 7f but since then has suffered from being burdened with marks in the 70s and although placed a couple of times in handicaps off those marks, couldn't get another win. Struggled a bit earlier this year but those runs were in much better races than this and also ran over 1m2f on soft ground which was never going to see him in good light. Shaped okay the last twice over a mile on the all-weather but I think 7f is as far as he wants to go and he's run well on all starts on artificial surfaces. This is easier, conditions suit and I think he can go well.
2.40 Wolverhampton - 1pt e/w Renbawi @ 13/2
The favourite is respected but has a speedy pedigree and I won't be getting involved over 7f on debut at a short price. Mark Johnston's runner, however, is nicely bred and both of this one's siblings are smart. Is a full brother to 86-rated Global Hero who won on debut and all of this one's relatives went well first time out. Has a wide draw to contend with but should be decent on paper, capable early on in his career and will certainly stay the trip no problem so looks a healthy price.
2.50 Plumpton - 1pt e/w Ding Ding @ 10/1
Was out of form when last seen but has plenty of back form to give him a big chance in this contest and encouragingly has run several good races first time out. Runs this track under these conditions very well and is down the weights now in a fairly poor contest so if in better heart since being freshened up, can go well at a double figure price.
3.00 Leicester - 2pts win Bandsman @ 11/2
And as if by magic, Bandsman also runs on the card and I think has a big chance. Couldn't quite benefit from the step down in class last time but it came on soft ground and this one is best on a sound surface. This is probably the easiest race he's competed in recently and with conditions to suit, can go close if his jumping holds up (can be a bit low at times).
4.10 Wolverhampton - 1pt e/w Desert Cat @ 12/1
Wide draw and weak in the market but will have a small go on Hughie Morrison's charge who ran well here on debut over 7f and wasn't disgraced last time out at Chelmsford from off the pace - proved tricky making ground up there and he wasn't far behind a couple of horses now rated in the high 60s. Desert Cat goes off a mere 54 on handicap debut today and given it's now a double figure price, will chance.
4.40 Wolverhampton - 2pts win Morisco @ 5/1
I really fancy this one today having shaped well from off the speed at Chelmsford when last seen - always difficult coming from behind at that venue and he did as well as he could have, staying on into 4th late in the day. This track will suit his closing style better and has had plenty of excuses this season having run on ground too soft for him or in group company. The Dascombe yard have also struggled to fire this year but are finally hitting their stride now and if getting the breaks, this one should be bang there at the finish. 

All prices Bet365:
12.30 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Adagio @ 13/2
I think the favourite is too short here - powerful connections and a good debut on these shores but didn't beat a huge amount and I prefer the substance and promise of Adagio's recent win. Did a lot wrong but still showed how much of an engine he possesses to pull clear up the run in and had the right horses in 2nd and 3rd to suggest the form is solid. This stiff track won't inconvenience at all and if jumping a bit better today, can make them all go.
1.05 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Ocean Cove @ 8/1
Remains fairly lightly raced for an 8yo and has had excuses on its recent runs - shaped quite well at Aintree when weakening late on last time after an absence and also had to overcome an absence three starts back at Chepstow. Record fresh isn't great so can forgive those efforts and between those runs he was a solid 2nd behind a well-handicapped rival and then had excuses in the staying race at the Festival in March. With last time out's run under his belt, will strip fitter here and conditions suit.
1.40 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Le Patriote @ 11/1
Seems a bit overpriced in a competitive race having bounced back to form with a ready success in a 3 runner novice chase last time. Beat a couple of decent types that day and is more than capable of competing with the best of these on his day. Had a quiet season in hot races last term but was highly promising the winter before and shaped better recently, suggesting he could have the spring back in his step and if so, looks to hold a chance here.
2.15 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Coole Cody @ 14/1
Got on at bigger prices yesterday but this horse is certainly well handicapped in my opinion and has conditions suit so the only question mark is the fact he's a novice in a competitive handicap. That said, I think he'll race handy, he jumps well and has the tactical speed to hold a position and if achieving that, I think he's more than capable of landing this off what looks a very fair mark.
2.50 Cheltenham - 2pts win Golan Fortune @ 5/1
Seems to be thriving on his racing and if he's recovered from a solid effort at Aintree a week ago ought to go very close again. Won this race last year and remains off a winnable mark. Shaped really well here over shorter two starts back and wasn't beaten far last week either. The return to this stiffer track will suit and has the visor added for the first time which can eek out a bit more all being well. Rock solid option.
3.25 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Whatsupwithyou @ 7/1
Another solid e/w play here having run really well behind Captain Tom Cat last time on his seasonal reappearance. Looks fairly handicapped on a sound novice effort at Kempton last year which worked out well and the return to softer ground can be a plus too to bring out this one's abundant stamina. Can turn the tables on his recent conqueror in my eyes and whilst the favourite is unexposed, there are still some question marks over its wellbeing and isn't necessarily bred for a 2m5f slog around Cheltenham.

All prices Bet365:
12.30 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Adagio @ 13/2
I think the favourite is too short here - powerful connections and a good debut on these shores but didn't beat a huge amount and I prefer the substance and promise of Adagio's recent win. Did a lot wrong but still showed how much of an engine he possesses to pull clear up the run in and had the right horses in 2nd and 3rd to suggest the form is solid. This stiff track won't inconvenience at all and if jumping a bit better today, can make them all go.
1.05 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Ocean Cove @ 8/1
Remains fairly lightly raced for an 8yo and has had excuses on its recent runs - shaped quite well at Aintree when weakening late on last time after an absence and also had to overcome an absence three starts back at Chepstow. Record fresh isn't great so can forgive those efforts and between those runs he was a solid 2nd behind a well-handicapped rival and then had excuses in the staying race at the Festival in March. With last time out's run under his belt, will strip fitter here and conditions suit.
1.40 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Le Patriote @ 11/1
Seems a bit overpriced in a competitive race having bounced back to form with a ready success in a 3 runner novice chase last time. Beat a couple of decent types that day and is more than capable of competing with the best of these on his day. Had a quiet season in hot races last term but was highly promising the winter before and shaped better recently, suggesting he could have the spring back in his step and if so, looks to hold a chance here.
2.15 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Coole Cody @ 14/1
Got on at bigger prices yesterday but this horse is certainly well handicapped in my opinion and has conditions suit so the only question mark is the fact he's a novice in a competitive handicap. That said, I think he'll race handy, he jumps well and has the tactical speed to hold a position and if achieving that, I think he's more than capable of landing this off what looks a very fair mark.
2.50 Cheltenham - 2pts win Golan Fortune @ 5/1
Seems to be thriving on his racing and if he's recovered from a solid effort at Aintree a week ago ought to go very close again. Won this race last year and remains off a winnable mark. Shaped really well here over shorter two starts back and wasn't beaten far last week either. The return to this stiffer track will suit and has the visor added for the first time which can eek out a bit more all being well. Rock solid option.
3.25 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Whatsupwithyou @ 7/1
Another solid e/w play here having run really well behind Captain Tom Cat last time on his seasonal reappearance. Looks fairly handicapped on a sound novice effort at Kempton last year which worked out well and the return to softer ground can be a plus too to bring out this one's abundant stamina. Can turn the tables on his recent conqueror in my eyes and whilst the favourite is unexposed, there are still some question marks over its wellbeing and isn't necessarily bred for a 2m5f slog around Cheltenham.

Unplaced
3rd at 14/1
1st @ 9/1
2nd @ 5/1
Unplaced
2nd @ 10/1
3rd @ 14/1
 
Bit frustrating but certainly can't complain. 

Unplaced
3rd at 14/1
1st @ 9/1
2nd @ 5/1
Unplaced
2nd @ 10/1
3rd @ 14/1
 
Bit frustrating but certainly can't complain. 

Unplaced
3rd at 14/1
1st @ 9/1
2nd @ 5/1
Unplaced
2nd @ 10/1
3rd @ 14/1
 
Bit frustrating but certainly can't complain. 

Started writing out the first two and then my computer shut down unexpectedly and didn't have time to rewrite those ones I'm afraid!
All prices Bet365:
 
11.45 Newcastle - 1pt e/w Onlyfoolsownhorses @ 10/1
12.18 Newcastle - 1pt e/w Dubh Des Champs @ 9/1
 
1.15 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Castle Robin @ 9/1
I do suspect the favourite is well handicapped but is a short price in a competitive race and I think Castle Robin is a rock solid alternative. Likely to race off handy and has been running consistently well in novice races with its mark not looking restrictive. He'll see this trip out around here strongly and off a fair mark could be tough to peg back.
1.50 Cheltenham - 2pts win Fanion D'Estruval @ 9/2
By no means the finished article and can throw in some mistakes but has a big engine and there's still scope off this mark. Was an impressive handicap winner last season (runner up has won well since) and shaped very well in a novice at Kempton when last seen despite the race not being run to suit and him making jumping errors. If he can iron those out today I think he'll take a lot of beating.
2.50 Southwell - 1pt e/w Ballymilan @ 9/1
Definitely has a win in her off this sort of mark having shaped well in novice races despite lacking a bit of tactical speed at times. Tends to finish off quite well having hit a flat spot and it was a similar story at Hexham on handicap debut last time. If she's held up off the pace it could be the same story again here unless they a good gallop but I'm hoping they make more use of her today, try and lessen the blow of any flat spot and keep her towards the head of affairs throughout. If that happens, she has a big chance.
3.35 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Wild Romance @ 9/1
I backed Does He Know when winning here last time and was impressed but at the prices I think Wild Romance is very interesting getting weight as she did well to win a decent novice hurdle over 2m3f last time, staying on well to lead late in the day and doing much the best of those held up. Bred to stay so plenty more to come now getting a stiffer test and I think she'll be a big player today.
4.05 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Chasamax @ 11/1
Favourite is well handicapped clearly but beat a poor field last time out and can be taken on in a competitive heat. Chasamax clearly needs a sound surface so you can ignore a couple of lesser efforts on soft and went well on handicap debut last time when a staying on second. This more galloping track will suit and whilst I'm not sure he's thrown in, has some good form on a sound surface including when 2nd to Tea Clipper on hurdling debut and this sort of test ought to suit so appeals at an each-way price.

Started writing out the first two and then my computer shut down unexpectedly and didn't have time to rewrite those ones I'm afraid!
All prices Bet365:
 
11.45 Newcastle - 1pt e/w Onlyfoolsownhorses @ 10/1
12.18 Newcastle - 1pt e/w Dubh Des Champs @ 9/1
 
1.15 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Castle Robin @ 9/1
I do suspect the favourite is well handicapped but is a short price in a competitive race and I think Castle Robin is a rock solid alternative. Likely to race off handy and has been running consistently well in novice races with its mark not looking restrictive. He'll see this trip out around here strongly and off a fair mark could be tough to peg back.
1.50 Cheltenham - 2pts win Fanion D'Estruval @ 9/2
By no means the finished article and can throw in some mistakes but has a big engine and there's still scope off this mark. Was an impressive handicap winner last season (runner up has won well since) and shaped very well in a novice at Kempton when last seen despite the race not being run to suit and him making jumping errors. If he can iron those out today I think he'll take a lot of beating.
2.50 Southwell - 1pt e/w Ballymilan @ 9/1
Definitely has a win in her off this sort of mark having shaped well in novice races despite lacking a bit of tactical speed at times. Tends to finish off quite well having hit a flat spot and it was a similar story at Hexham on handicap debut last time. If she's held up off the pace it could be the same story again here unless they a good gallop but I'm hoping they make more use of her today, try and lessen the blow of any flat spot and keep her towards the head of affairs throughout. If that happens, she has a big chance.
3.35 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Wild Romance @ 9/1
I backed Does He Know when winning here last time and was impressed but at the prices I think Wild Romance is very interesting getting weight as she did well to win a decent novice hurdle over 2m3f last time, staying on well to lead late in the day and doing much the best of those held up. Bred to stay so plenty more to come now getting a stiffer test and I think she'll be a big player today.
4.05 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Chasamax @ 11/1
Favourite is well handicapped clearly but beat a poor field last time out and can be taken on in a competitive heat. Chasamax clearly needs a sound surface so you can ignore a couple of lesser efforts on soft and went well on handicap debut last time when a staying on second. This more galloping track will suit and whilst I'm not sure he's thrown in, has some good form on a sound surface including when 2nd to Tea Clipper on hurdling debut and this sort of test ought to suit so appeals at an each-way price.

Started writing out the first two and then my computer shut down unexpectedly and didn't have time to rewrite those ones I'm afraid!
All prices Bet365:
 
11.45 Newcastle - 1pt e/w Onlyfoolsownhorses @ 10/1
12.18 Newcastle - 1pt e/w Dubh Des Champs @ 9/1
 
1.15 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Castle Robin @ 9/1
I do suspect the favourite is well handicapped but is a short price in a competitive race and I think Castle Robin is a rock solid alternative. Likely to race off handy and has been running consistently well in novice races with its mark not looking restrictive. He'll see this trip out around here strongly and off a fair mark could be tough to peg back.
1.50 Cheltenham - 2pts win Fanion D'Estruval @ 9/2
By no means the finished article and can throw in some mistakes but has a big engine and there's still scope off this mark. Was an impressive handicap winner last season (runner up has won well since) and shaped very well in a novice at Kempton when last seen despite the race not being run to suit and him making jumping errors. If he can iron those out today I think he'll take a lot of beating.
2.50 Southwell - 1pt e/w Ballymilan @ 9/1
Definitely has a win in her off this sort of mark having shaped well in novice races despite lacking a bit of tactical speed at times. Tends to finish off quite well having hit a flat spot and it was a similar story at Hexham on handicap debut last time. If she's held up off the pace it could be the same story again here unless they a good gallop but I'm hoping they make more use of her today, try and lessen the blow of any flat spot and keep her towards the head of affairs throughout. If that happens, she has a big chance.
3.35 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Wild Romance @ 9/1
I backed Does He Know when winning here last time and was impressed but at the prices I think Wild Romance is very interesting getting weight as she did well to win a decent novice hurdle over 2m3f last time, staying on well to lead late in the day and doing much the best of those held up. Bred to stay so plenty more to come now getting a stiffer test and I think she'll be a big player today.
4.05 Cheltenham - 1pt e/w Chasamax @ 11/1
Favourite is well handicapped clearly but beat a poor field last time out and can be taken on in a competitive heat. Chasamax clearly needs a sound surface so you can ignore a couple of lesser efforts on soft and went well on handicap debut last time when a staying on second. This more galloping track will suit and whilst I'm not sure he's thrown in, has some good form on a sound surface including when 2nd to Tea Clipper on hurdling debut and this sort of test ought to suit so appeals at an each-way price.

All prices Bet365:
12.20 Sedgefield - 1pt e/w Ashjan @ 40/1
Bits and pieces of old form and is coming down the weights. Probably not been suited by soft ground since joining this yard so the better conditions today and easier contest makes him worthy of a second look at big odds.
12.52 Sedgefield - 1pt e/w Flood Defence @ 10/1
Wasn't on a going day at Hexham when last seen but it was a real slog on holding ground with many finishing legless having moved well throughout and I think it was probably just too much for this one. The easier track and better ground will suit and he was in form on the level prior to that. Previous form in novice hurdles is okay and can bounce back here.
1.07 Ludlow - 1pt e/w Megalodon @ 10/1
Backed this one at Bangor last time and it travelled and jumped well for a long way before falling in a hole and ended up being pulled up. That's some concern but on better ground and off a reduced weight in a poor race, it could build on that. Also has taken a few runs to find full fitness in previous seasons before too so may have still needed that run and looks an each-way chance here.
1.22 Sedgefield - 1pt e/w Kisumu @ 12/1
Ran a really good race two starts back and on that evidence would have a decent chance here. Flopped when last seen but it's possible it just came too soon and the fact he's had two months off since suggests there's something in that. Freshened up with conditions to suit, has solid each-way claims.
2.50 Ludlow - 1pt e/w Theocrat @ 16/1
Ran well on hurdling debut but was let down by the steady gallop and I hope will be ridden with more purpose today. Talking About You is likely to bowl along in front which should help force the pace and catch out a couple of suspect stayers. Theocrat has plenty of stamina and conditions suit so whilst not as good on the flat as some of these, can use his jumping experience to good use here.

All prices Bet365:
12.20 Sedgefield - 1pt e/w Ashjan @ 40/1
Bits and pieces of old form and is coming down the weights. Probably not been suited by soft ground since joining this yard so the better conditions today and easier contest makes him worthy of a second look at big odds.
12.52 Sedgefield - 1pt e/w Flood Defence @ 10/1
Wasn't on a going day at Hexham when last seen but it was a real slog on holding ground with many finishing legless having moved well throughout and I think it was probably just too much for this one. The easier track and better ground will suit and he was in form on the level prior to that. Previous form in novice hurdles is okay and can bounce back here.
1.07 Ludlow - 1pt e/w Megalodon @ 10/1
Backed this one at Bangor last time and it travelled and jumped well for a long way before falling in a hole and ended up being pulled up. That's some concern but on better ground and off a reduced weight in a poor race, it could build on that. Also has taken a few runs to find full fitness in previous seasons before too so may have still needed that run and looks an each-way chance here.
1.22 Sedgefield - 1pt e/w Kisumu @ 12/1
Ran a really good race two starts back and on that evidence would have a decent chance here. Flopped when last seen but it's possible it just came too soon and the fact he's had two months off since suggests there's something in that. Freshened up with conditions to suit, has solid each-way claims.
2.50 Ludlow - 1pt e/w Theocrat @ 16/1
Ran well on hurdling debut but was let down by the steady gallop and I hope will be ridden with more purpose today. Talking About You is likely to bowl along in front which should help force the pace and catch out a couple of suspect stayers. Theocrat has plenty of stamina and conditions suit so whilst not as good on the flat as some of these, can use his jumping experience to good use here.

All prices Bet365:
12.20 Sedgefield - 1pt e/w Ashjan @ 40/1
Bits and pieces of old form and is coming down the weights. Probably not been suited by soft ground since joining this yard so the better conditions today and easier contest makes him worthy of a second look at big odds.
12.52 Sedgefield - 1pt e/w Flood Defence @ 10/1
Wasn't on a going day at Hexham when last seen but it was a real slog on holding ground with many finishing legless having moved well throughout and I think it was probably just too much for this one. The easier track and better ground will suit and he was in form on the level prior to that. Previous form in novice hurdles is okay and can bounce back here.
1.07 Ludlow - 1pt e/w Megalodon @ 10/1
Backed this one at Bangor last time and it travelled and jumped well for a long way before falling in a hole and ended up being pulled up. That's some concern but on better ground and off a reduced weight in a poor race, it could build on that. Also has taken a few runs to find full fitness in previous seasons before too so may have still needed that run and looks an each-way chance here.
1.22 Sedgefield - 1pt e/w Kisumu @ 12/1
Ran a really good race two starts back and on that evidence would have a decent chance here. Flopped when last seen but it's possible it just came too soon and the fact he's had two months off since suggests there's something in that. Freshened up with conditions to suit, has solid each-way claims.
2.50 Ludlow - 1pt e/w Theocrat @ 16/1
Ran well on hurdling debut but was let down by the steady gallop and I hope will be ridden with more purpose today. Talking About You is likely to bowl along in front which should help force the pace and catch out a couple of suspect stayers. Theocrat has plenty of stamina and conditions suit so whilst not as good on the flat as some of these, can use his jumping experience to good use here.

All prices Bet365:
12.55 Exeter - 0.5pts e/w Mighty Leader @ 33/1
Good chance that this one is just past his best now but on old form he'd have a huge chance here off this mark for all he's not as good anymore. Was always up against it on soft ground after a lengthy absence at Chepstow recently but with that under his belt and stronger handling today, he's worth a small investment in case that has brought him on significantly as if there's life in him yet, he's no 33/1 shot for this race.
1.10 Ayr - 1pt e/w Happy Hollow @ 17/2
Got to be worth chancing here on hurdling debut having been a highly promising type in bumpers a few years back - including when brushing aside the high class chaser Mister Whitaker. Was given a stiff task on his return from 4 years off at Pontefract over 2m2f on soft ground in a good race last time but shaped okay through the race before getting understandably tired. Remains an 8yo so still some life in him yet and with that run under his belt, ought to go well on hurdling debut.
1.20 Bangor - 1pt e/w Vienna Court @ 12/1
Worth looking at this race from an each-way perspective with the 8 runners and I think the Twiston-Davies runner has sound claims of at least making the frame. Has plenty of form in the book over hurdles but has always appealed as a chasing type and if finding the necessary few lbs, isn't far off these and especially with some of the more fancied runners having their first run over the larger obstacles, this one looks a decent price for an each-way bet.
1.45 Ayr - 1pt e/w Off The Hook @ 8/1
Some solid form in the book in decent contests and shaped well when just getting tired over 3 miles last time on his first run of the season and after wind surgery. Back down to a feasible mark, conditions suit and I expect a big run this afternoon.
1.55 Bangor - 1pt e/w Captain Tommy @ 8/1
Was capable off higher marks than this in hurdle races last year and has had excuses so far this season. Was never going on quick ground last time but was a solid 2nd the time before and the combination of the return from a break, tricky company and insufficient stamina tests caught him out in subsequent novice chase runs. Now has conditions to suit again off a fair mark and looks capable of a big run.
2.05 Exeter - 1pt e/w Max Forte @ 16/1
Has a bit to prove back over fences but shaped quite well after a long break last time here over hurdles when going well for a long way before tiring up the straight. Entitled to strip fitter now and is off a lowly mark. If jumping okay could well go close from towards the front with the ground looking okay as he wouldn't want it too soft. Open race so worth a small investment.

3.15 Huntingdon - 1pt win Caro Des Flos @ 16/1 Bet365

All prices Bet365:
1.07 Hereford - 1pt e/w Alberto's Dream @ 8/1
Fairly consistent type who stays well and handles conditions so looks a live player here off a fair mark. A few of these have bits and pieces to prove in terms of trip, jumping and potentially give in the ground so this one looks solid and ought to go close.
1.37 Hereford - 1pt e/w Numitor @ 9/1
Shaped as if in need of the run when last seen but should be spot on now for this afternoon and looks very fairly handicapped on her novice run at Kempton two starts back. Wasn't beaten that far by some really smart types and with conditions to suit, looks a big price off a handy looking mark.
1.45 Huntingdon - 2pts win Rowland Ward @ 15/2
Really surprised by the price of this one as he looks well handicapped on his victory over a horse who has gone on to win well twice since last season and had an obvious excuse at Cheltenham when last seen in another hot contest. This mark looks lenient on those runs and if fit enough on seasonal reappearance, ought to go very close.
2.45 Huntingdon - 1pt e/w Candy Lou @ 14/1
Has fitness to prove after a break but was a promising 3rd on handicap debut when last seen and can be ridden handier now she confirmed she stays the trip well on that occasion. Was previously running okay in decent novice races she was never going to threaten in but now handicapping under suitable conditions she looks a big price.
3.15 Huntingdon - 1pt e/w Caro Des Flos @ 16/1
Another one that I think is comfortably overpriced today as you can write off its last run when returning from a break over a trip he doesn't stay. Fitness on his side now and wasn't beaten far two runs ago despite the ground being on the soft side for him. Conditions are spot on now, he's down to a good mark and surely will offer more today than he did under less than ideal conditions last time.
3.37 Hereford - 1pt e/w Giga White @ 9/1
Already been money for this one which is a shame as I'd like to be on at bigger prices but I backed it last time and it ran much better than the losing margin suggests. Is a character who can sulk in races but made eyecatching progress down the back straight at Ffos Las last time but couldn't go on in what was a real test over 2m4f on that occasion. Very much shaped like a 2 miler that day and these conditions are spot on. Has had various excuses this season and if on a going day I think can land the spoils here at a decent price.

All prices Bet365:
1.00 Chepstow - 1pt e/w Nocte Volatus @ 10/1
Weak race and Tom Lacey's lightly-raced runner looks interesting here upped in trip with his seasonal reappearance under his belt. Was too fresh on return but has some okay runs in novice races and its dam stayed 3 miles so the step up in trip looks a good move. 
2.05 Chepstow - 1pt e/w Buster Edwards @ 13/2
Has been running well consistently of late and looks off a fair mark with conditions to suit. Late mistake and the Cheltenham hill exaggerated the losing margin last time in a much better race than this and can go close today.
2.48 Kempton - 1pt e/w Neverbeen To Paris @ 14/1
Plenty of decent form in the book and I think you can write off last time as a blip. Wants this sort of trip on decent ground and looks off a fair mark on a return to hurdles. Shaped as if needing the run when a solid 3rd on seasonal reappearance when last running over the smaller obstacles and looks set to outrun his odds here.
3.10 Chepstow - 1pt e/w Butterwick Brook @ 18/1
Market signals not great but this one looks an unexposed type going chasing and appears off a fair mark on those novice efforts. Is a galloping type who should take to fences and if fit enough to do himself justice can go close.
3.30 Carlisle - 1pt e/w Ryalex @ 10/1
Quite a few of these have something to prove and that includes Ryalex back from a break and wind surgery but is fairly consistent when racing and these conditions are ideal. Returns off a fair mark, we know he stays and handles conditions and if fit enough (has gone well fresh before) looks more than capable of playing a part in the finish this afternoon.

Aye, painful one that. Glad The White Mouse got the job done to ease the pain!

All prices Bet365:
12.40 Wincanton - 2pts win Keep Moving @ 13/2
Won this race well last year off just 2lbs lower and has had excuses since. Ran okay when shaping as if needing the run at Exeter last time but ought to be a different proposition this afternoon and there's market support suggesting he can land this for the second year running. 
12.55 Doncaster - 1pt e/w Firmament @ 25/1
Backed this one last time over c&d and he went well for a long way on heavy ground and the slightly better conditions today will suit. Enjoys this track and with a slightly more conservative ride looks capable of getting involved here at a big price.
1.00 Aintree - 1pt e/w General Custard @ 10/1
Jumped a bit novicey on chasing debut after a long absence at Wetherby last time but could be a different proposition now with that under his belt. Needs to avoid the dreaded bounce but hopefully he can be ridden handier today as he gets the trip well. Mark looks appealing on novice hurdling form and if attacking his fences today, should hold sound claims.
1.30 Doncaster - 1pt e/w Ostilio @ 13/2
Dakota Gold will find this harder to dominate and I think the all round pace of Ostilio can see him prevail this afternoon. Plenty of form over 7f and a mile but has the speed to lie up with these and I can see him outstaying them late on so long as holding an early pitch. Good chance at the weights and ought to give a good account of himself.
1.35 Aintree - 2pts win Golan Fortune @ 11/2
Market support is there after this one ran a very promising race over a trip shorter than ideal on his reappearance at Cheltenham a couple of weeks back. Has ideal conditions here, is on a winnable mark and ought to go very well indeed.
1.50 Wincanton - 1pt e/w The White Mouse @ 12/1
Very interesting runner for Lucy Wadham as it looks well handicapped on novice form - winning a dual with Oscar Rose which reads well and was in the process of running a big race when clipping heels and coming down in a hot handicap when last seen. That was a while ago now but won its hurdling debut after a break and early market signals are quite promising. 
2.05 Doncaster - 1pt e/w Born With Pride @ 12/1
Still lightly raced and has a big chance on any of her form over this sort of trip. Hasn't finished off her races over further and it may just be that she doesn't stay and these conditions look spot on for her. Won on debut on heavy, ran okay despite having things go wrong in the hot Berlin Tango race at Kempton and ran a solid race over 1m4f behind Wonderful Tonight in France a couple of starts back. 1m2f on soft looks ideal and has a solid chance on ratings if bouncing back.