3:30 Wincanton Tips

Art Of Diplomacy probably would have completed his sixth consecutive win over fences but for stumbling on landing after the last fence at Chepstow last time. He had made a bad mistake earlier in that race but is normally a safe jumper and can win despite going up 26 pounds since May.

This one looks best at around 3 miles. That is definitely the distance that his best results have come. His last 2 runs were in the Grand National and over 28.5 furlongs, so I think the return to 25 furlongs will see a return to form.

With a mark of 144, SOUL ICON is the second-highest rated in this seven-runner field. He was initially entered in the 2m2f Haldon Gold Cup Handicap Chase at Exeter yesterday, but has instead chosen to make the significant step up in trip to 3m2f. He finished ninth in the 3-mile Topham at Aintree last April off a mark of 145. His best form has come over much shorter, like when beating Edwardstone by 3½ lengths in the 2-mile Grade 2 Desert Orchid Handicap Chase last year. He was rated 143 that day and has since failed to make a significant impression in three starts over longer trips. However, he relishes quicker ground, and it looks like he will get his wish with firm in the going description at the time of writing. The jockey, Toby McCai-Mitchell, takes off a valuable 5lbs, having recorded a 23.53% strike rate to a level stakes profit of +49.09 over the past 12 months. Trainer Keiran Burke is also in profit (+5.00) with his chasers over the past 12 months, having had one winner and two placed from 12 runners.

The trip is the issue in my opinion. Assuming it is fit for this, it has a sound chance. It had a wind operation and is probably the best horse in the race. Betting forecast leader Act of Diplomacy may chase him home.

Looks the best each way bet here with 3 places on offer. Always a consistent type and trainer in good form recently. Has every chance of running into a place minimum.