SIXMILEBRIDGE was an authoritative chase debut winner for us at Ayr last month. The lightly-raced six-year-old jumped well from the front that day, showing a touch of class. He won a Grade Two hurdle last term, prior to being disqualified for a banned substance. Taken on a couple of debutants over fences, I believe his extra chase experience can see him prove hard to catch.

I believe LUCKY MANIFEST is the one to beat in this staying hurdle. The Tom Lacey-trained runner arrives in excellent form, following a runner-up position at this venue on second handicap start last time. That superb effort came from over a shorter distance, and with further progress within reach, I can see him going close. 

Novice Grade Two hurdle scorer – and course winner – FORTUNE DE MER, has scope for progression in handicap company. The Dan Skelton-trained Doyen gelding certainly caught the eye, when making his handicap debut at Ascot recently. He ran-on well into 2nd, from a mark of 124. A rise of 3lb is fair and he can feature, especially with the likelihood of a decent pace to aim at.

KING TURGEON won this race last season, and could have a say in the finish, from just a 3lb higher mark. He made all of the running that day, and is likely to make this a strong stamina test. His jumping is a real asset, which should aid his cause at this tricky jumping circuit. A recent pipe-opener at Aintree ought to put him spot-on for this assignment.

FUGITIF knows how to run well at this track, with a record of 222413P53085 here, including in some top handicap company. The veteran has become a well-treated runner in handicap terms – some 8lb below his previous winning mark. A 5th on seasonal reappearance may bring him forward enough to at least hit the placings.

The cross-country race is definitely a visual treat for equine fans. It is usually dominated by horses, who have shown previous good form at the unique circuit. One such performer is LATENIGHTPASS, who has scored over track and trip. He was a fine 3rd here last campaign and finished an excellent 3rd at the Cheltenham festival, too. I expect him to challenge for a placing, despite his advancing years.