RACE PREVIEWS & TIPS (THURSDAY)

15:25 Ludlow Kim Bailey couldn’t be in much better form and has had 6 winners from his last 23 runners, represented today by likely market leader Aliandy he has every chance of further improving that stat. Tough and consistent his solid recent form makes him as likely as any and his Southwell win two starts back reads well in the context of this. Royal Plaza comes from the King yard and though his recent form leaves him with a fair amount to prove, this would be the time of year to expect a revival. Baron Du Plessis gave notice when running a big race in 2nd at Warwick and would be a player here if reproducing that, he inexplicably flopped at Musselburgh when a strong favourite after that though and trusting him is very risky. Seymour Star won a Maiden hurdle over trip and track last time and appeals more than Mixchievous though all things considered Aliandy looks a worthy favourite and is taken to justify the tag. Aliandy (WIN)

16:10 Taunton With the Cheltenham Festival on the horizon a close eye on the big yards form is likely the best piece of advice you could be given and a few such yards have runners in this. Historically Alan King would be high on the list of any Festival punter and his, The Unit has the correct profile to be going close in this. Strong when getting up in the dying strides at Doncaster he duly followed up with another gutsy effort over course and distance the time after, once again sent here last time he showed his battling qualities and though he was ultimately beaten the form has since been franked. Volpone Jelois hails from the Nicholls yard and is another proven around here, strong on the book he should be playing a serious part though I cant help but feel chasing will be his game. Roadie Joe could be dangerous if getting a soft lead but like Zarib both lack the scope of the market leaders. The others winning would be fairly disappointing and so with the best recent form, The Unit is handed the vote. The Unit (WIN) – NAP