MARINER (1) has scored at his last two starts, most recently by 1.3 lengths over 2000m at Ripon. That continued the good form this campaign, with three wins and two minor placings from nine starts. Leading player again. L'EAGLE AID (4) lines up for the first time since September 20. Started the last campaign in good style when in the placings over 2000m at Beverley. One of the genuine hopes in the race. FAST FRED (2) didn't make an impact at his last run before going for a spell on 1/03/2025, finishing fourth and beaten 4.5 lengths over 2800m at Southwell All Weather. Worth plenty of thought. V TWELVE (6) produced a good run two starts back to finish second but disappointed last time when out of the placings at Hexham over 3250m. Has the class to figure prominently.