ONLY BY NIGHT is among the place protagonists, for trainer Gavin Cromwell.

She has made a promising start to chasing, with a record of four wins from seven runs.

Her Grade Three success on penultimate outing was a clear personal best, and she brings festival form to the table, having finished an outstanding second in last year’s G1 Arkle Novices’ Chase.

The rise in journey can suit here, as a three-mile point winner, and I’m hopeful of a positive performance.

Welsh and Irish Grand National winner – HAITI COULEURS – has developed into a genuine Graded performer, having surged to victory in a Grade Three and Grade Two this term.

He stays forever, and any rain will certainly be to his advantage, as his proven stamina is definitely his most prized asset.

In what may develop into a real battle, I would much rather have my wager on my selection to determinedly fend off his rivals – especially if able to get to the front early.

CON’S ROC has interested me for a while, after his narrow third in a Down Royal Hunters’ Chase at Christmas.

The lightly-raced runner was keeping on strongly that day, behind the reopposing Its On The Line and Willitgoahead (who I also like for the race).

He has scope for improvement, especially raised in trip at this testing circuit. First-time cheekpieces could also spark progress.

I give WENDROCK a serious chance, despite a pulled-up effort last time.

You can easily strike a line through that run, given it came over three miles on testing ground. The drop to a suitable distance here, coupled with a sounder surface, can see an upturn in form, with this race an obvious target.

His trainer has an outstanding record in this race, too. Carl Millar was aboard when the pair ran on powerfully over this trip, earlier this term, and they scope to go close under optimum conditions. I expect him to be well supported in the market.