WINNER of a Carlisle bumper for Karen McLintock in March, ROJO VIVO was unable to quite get on terms with Knock A Hand on his hurdling bow at Chepstow.

However, he performed creditably for his new stable and it should not be long before he gets off the mark over timber.

Lighty raced and well beaten on his only two starts this season in good company, CANTLOW produced a much better effort at Sandown even though he had no chance with Poungach. He had the remainder well beaten and, despite an inevitable rise, he can go one better in the near future.

Considering he was a bit keen, MERCHANT OF DUBAI was not disgraced on his hurding debut at Kelso. A stayer on the Flat, he never looked like getting to grips with the pacesetting Eurohunter up the home straight, but his turn is just around the corner.

Although SKIPPERS BRIG was unable to peg back Always Right at Kelso, he ran very well in defeat and should come on for his reappearance. He has had his problems but is useful on his day and can gain compensation soon.

MIGHTY MAGNUS travelled well for a long way at Sedgefield before getting leg-weary late on.

Despite a blunder five out, he found himself in front at the second last, only to be collared in the last 50 yards. First-time cheekpieces seemed to help him and, although still a maiden, compensation awaits him.