A good renewal of this race which is a trial for the Aintree Grand National.

We have a few old friends in here such as Vintage Clouds, Yala Enki, One For Arthur & The Two Amigos but the value bet is Lord Du Mesnil. He might have only just turned 7 years old trainer Richard Hobson has a proper stayer on his hands in this son of Saint Des Saints. Lord Des Mesnil has won three on the bounce with his recent win the most impressive. He won over course and distance readily galloping clear of Perfect Candidate having led from the front. He might have a battle for the lead this afternoon wiht The Two Amigos but seems a relaxed horse who can sit in behind the lead and enoy his racing.

The handicapper raised Lord Du Mesnil 10lbs for his recent win but he looks capable of winning again such was the authority of his course and distance win in December. Yala Enki, Vintage Clouds, Elegant Escape & Ballyoptic all looked handicapped to near their best and might prove vulnerable to younger legs despite conditions to suit. Fingers Crossed the racing gets the green light with Storm Denis approaching fast.