2:55 Kelso Tips

Held back and handled very tenderly the last time at Kempton. Stayed on well there to only be beaten 3L. Skelton said in the stable tour, 'He has loads of speed; two miles is his trip and I think you'll see him to much better effect next time. But I think he may be the type to get it all together in the spring. When he does, he'll be a tidy horse.' Interesting they run here where on paper it would look like he has no chance. Obviously carries very little and we've seen what they've been like for plotting one up this season. Today may not be the day, but I'd be more frustrated seeing him win after waiting for an entry like this than I will if he doesn't. 5 places around regardless. Had has seen some money early. Market likely telling on the day.

Won the Scottish Champion Hurdle at Ayr in April last year and won the last 2 runnings of this race. Possibly targeted for a three-timer and likely to show improvement on second run following wind surgery.

Unexposed, improving type that has run some good races this season, including last time out when sixth in a hot-looking race. Ground conditions no problem.

This horse brings the most reliable profile into this race. It's a proven 2m rhythm, and a pace map that will allow him to strike for the win. David Bass is also a good fit.

Hasn't won since a Grade 2 victory at Haydock last year. However, he has been highly tried. He is 3 wins from 3 at this track, including over hurdles, so the return here will do him the world of good.

Just five starts over hurdles, form 22114. His last hurdle run was in Grade 1 company. Three runs over fences this winter, two narrow defeats, and he is in good shape. Now running in a handicap hurdle with a nice £61K first prize. He won a useful Grade 2 novice hurdle last spring at this track and is running off a tempting handicap mark judging him on that effort. No problem with the forecasted rain and a strong jockey is in the saddle. A recent wind-op could improve his chances.

An expectedly open Morebattle, and a chance taken on Bespoke Tailor on handicap debut. He could be well treated off a mark of 120 here, having finished well ahead of a 115-rated horse last time who had previously chased home 129-rated A Pai De Nom to within a few lengths, giving away a few lbs. He needs to take a leap forward, but he’s been largely unlucky not to land any spoils this season, and the first-time tongue tie could help him see out his race a bit better.