The opening contest at Lingfield is a thoroughly competitive affair, with a plethora of chances. One who catches the eye from an each-way perspective is BUXTED TOO. He’s returning to his favourite all-weather course (undefeated in two runs) and holds plenty of appeal on figures, with top apprentice Billy Loughnane aboard.

FREESCAPE rates better than his odds suggest, arriving in the UK after a trio of runs in better company at Meydan. He’s top-rated and should improve for the switch back to the all-weather, having registered a smart success at Dundalk in December. There is a chance the eight-year-old could dictate matters, with a small field and lack of pace likely, which would enhance his claims.

DILIGENT HARRY arrives with a question mark after a down the field effort in France. Something looked amiss that day, with the jockey quick to coast home. On best form, the son of Due Diligence warrants maximum respect’ as a four-time all-weather winner, including over track and trip. He’s got a neck to find with likely favourite, Annaf, but could bridge the narrow margin if allowed loose on the front end of proceedings.