LE SOLEIL REVE has shown plenty of ability in both handicap hurdle starts, with back-to-back runner-up finishes. He is a lightly-raced five-year-old who performed well in this class over track and trip last month.

A 3lb rise for not winning may seem harsh, but he is progressing nicely and looks to have more to offer at this level.

PLANNED PARADISE is a veteran three-time chase winner who has scored at this extreme stamina test. The Christian Williams-trained stayer arrives as a well-handicapped individual – 9lb below his last winning mark.

He has been in and out of this campaign, but clearly has the credentials to go close here, with a recent Windsor sixth a pleasing run. The extra journey can only enhance his each-way claims here.

I cannot leave JUST JUMP alone on a stable debut for Tony Carroll. The shrewd handler has taken over the reins – with the horse a recent switcher from Ireland – who ran creditably when third over 5f at Dundalk last time.

A move up to 6f looks wise, and this opens the opportunity to get off the mark on the all-weather.

I AM ME is a rock-solid contender, following consecutive seconds over track and trip. He arrives on a competitive mark of 68 – which is 8lb lower than on sole turf success.

His latest effort also came in a higher grade, and the trainer is in absolutely scintillating form – with five winners from his last 8 runners. I expect a big performance if replicating either of his last two efforts here.

PLANTAROMA has been found a winning opportunity to break through for the first time. The Planteur mare reverts to hurdling after a pair of modest chase efforts.

She is also eased in class and is racing from her lowest handicap mark to date (100). A further catalyst for improvement may be first-time cheekpieces, which are added.

I expect The LONG POINT to follow up on his comfortable handicap chase success at Doncaster last month. That was his first chase win on his third chase outing – keeping on well on soft ground.

That improved effort gives me confidence that he can continue his progression, from a 5lb higher mark. The form of that race has received a boost, with the second winning at Exeter next-time-out.