JUDGING by his latest run at Newcastle, BENE LAD is ready to win again. Always in the firing line, he went second on the run-in without threatening the progressive Douglas Julian and he should be kept on side.

Winner of a novice chase at Newcastle, TIPTOEAWAY returned to the track to run well on his handicap debut. While he was no match for Lackamon, he jumped soundly and travelled well, but his stamina was stretched and he will make amends over a shorter trip.

Raised 7lb for a successful return at Aintree in October, HECTOR’S CHOICE showed he still has more to offer when a creditable third at Newbury. He tired from the second last after racing prominently and his very capable trainer can find some more improvement in him and place him to advantage again on good ground.

Without a victory over hurdles for nearly four years, PATAVIUM showed enough at Carlisle on ground softer than he likes. He should improve for this outing following a break and an opportunity should come his way before long.

Considering he had been off for two years before returning with a run on the Flat and over hurdles, PRESQUE PERDRE made a very promising chasing debut at Catterick. He jumped like an old hand until his only error at the ditch on the far side second time which cost him the lead. He continued to jump well and will win races in this sphere if he can build on this.