17th January

1220 Haydock-Kingswell Theatre is unexposed and makes its handicap debut but the trainer is 0 from 35 with her handicap hurdlers here and that is enough to put anyone off.

Milansbar looks a big threat(3 from 3 on heavy) but is the right price while Barafundle ran well last time after an absence.

Its getting on now but Araldur looks a bigger price than it should be.It posted a good rating last time out,is 6w-4p-12r in fields of 10 or less and 2w-2p-4r in this grade.

Back Araldur 6pts at 7.5(Already Advised)-4th(-6pts)Travelled very well but sloppy hurdling cost it.

240 Haydock-This is a 2 horse race.

Third Intention is top rated and will appreciate the return not only to this track(1st and 2nd in 2 starts here) but also going this way round(6w-5p-21r L/H) compared to its last 2 runs the other way round(R/H 0w-1p-11r)

Its 3w-3p-6r in this grade and is the one to beat.

Carraig Mor unseated last time but is the main danger.

Back Third Intention 18pts at 3.0 at Betfair Exchange.-Fell(-18pts)Very frustrating to fall early on as the main danger ran no race.Would surely have won if standing up(DT-24pts)

250 Taunton-Some of the younger,unexposed horses may prove too much but I cant let Helium go unbacked at a stupid price.

This horse finished a good 2nd on the flat 15 days ago and returns to hurdles back on its last winning mark.

It has form figures of 3-1-1-2 at this track,the trainer is 5 from 15 with her handicap hurdlers here and she is 4 from 7 when riding one of her horses at Taunton.

Southfield Royale could be different class to these but is short enough on what its done so far.

Rocky Elsom and Oscar Sunset have chances while Daveron is 2 from 3 over course and distance.

Back Helium 4pts at 17.0(Already Advised)-UP(-4pts)(DT-28pts)

Monthly Total+211pts

Running Total+7395.29pts

16th January

245 Musselburgh-Habbie Simpson finished just in front of Riskier last time and despite the turnaround in the weights.I think it can do so again.

Riskier is a better horse going the other way round(R/H 0w-0p-4r) while Habbie Simpson has a good profile.

The trainer is 3 from 13 in handicap Chases here,is 3 from 4 on soft ground and 4w-2p-8r over todays trip.

Quito Du Tresor could make them all go if at its best but has become very inconsistent and prefers better ground(Soft 0w-3p-9r)

Man With Van is 3 from 3 going right handed but needs to improve on my figures.

Back Habbie Simpson 13pts at 4.3 (Already Advised)-3rd(-13pts)Ground dried out and on this track,the horse got outpaced.Stayed on well but too late.

15th January

145 Market Rasen-Mick Applebys horses are in great form and his Favourite Girl,should go close here.

Its latest rating and speed figure make it the one to beat and going right handed is what this horse wants(2w-3p-7r)

King of Strings is next best while Ossie`s Dancer probably needs the ground to turn heavy to be at its best.

Rayak represents top connections and would have chances at its best but is 0 from 14 overall.

Back Favourite Girl 9pts at 5.5-Won(+40.5pts)Hurdled fluently and hosed up.

205 Wincanton-This originally looks competitve with the progressive Trickaway and Like Minded very much respected but after that,there isnt that much there in my view.

Opening Batsmen really catches my eye.

Its possible its completely lost its way but I believe its been running over a trip that really stretches it.It did win once in 10 starts at 3 miles but that was on good ground and at other times,on softer ground its been running seemingly below par and as a consequence,its become extremely well handicapped.

It could hardly have a better profile,

2w-1p-4r at this track..the trainer has won with 6 of his last 8 runners...2w-1p-3r on soft/heavy ground...Returning to the track within 42 days or less 4w-3p-11r.

The real key for the selection however is the drop back to 2m4f.

Its form figures in races around the distance read 1st-2nd-1st-12th-1st-1st.

Back Opening Batsmen 7pts at 7.0(Already Advised)-2nd(-7pts)Beat the dangers but got done by the outsider.Very frustrating race to watch.(DT+33.5pts)

Monthly Total+252.0pts

Running Total+7436.29pts

14th January

3.0 Lingfield-Peterhouse hails from a powerful yard and after 3 ordinary runs at shorter,now makes its handicap debut over a more suitable trip.It should go well.

Helmsman, on the bare figures of its run last time in France, looks to have pretty strong claims.

Amadeity doesnt look on a very lenient mark now handicapping and has proved very one paced at the business end of races so far.

The trainer has record of 1 win from 48 runners at this track.Ive got it more around the 9/1 mark.

Lay Amadeity 20pts at 5.5-UP(+19pts after commission)

Monthly Total+218.50pts

Running Total+7402.79pts

13th January

205 Fakenham-Lucy Wadham has a 22% strike rate with her horses here and must have a good chance of improving that with Rendezvous Peak here.

This horse posted a career best rating last time,on its 2nd start in handicaps and a repeat would make it tough to beat.

Cappielow Park has been running well but isnt proven over this far and is 0w-2p-8r in this grade.

Raktiman has to bounce back after running poorly last time while Bajardo would have chances on its latest run but i would have preferred it if it was down not up in trip.

Back Rendezvous Peak 18pts at 3.0 at Betfair Exchange-3rd(-18pts)Dont know if it was the track but never looked comfortable.Another disappointing performance

Monthly Total+199.5pts

Running Total+7383.79pts

12th January

405 Plumpton-Bally Sands threw away a race 3 days ago when the jockey went to take the wrong course but even so,im amazed Leith Hill Legasi isnt favourite here.

This horse has only had 2 starts over fences and won in decisive fashion last time,posting easily the best recent rating and a good speed figure.

The trainer is 7 from 19 with his chasers here and the jockey/trainer combination has a 29% strike rate when teaming up.

Back Leith Hill Legasi 20pts at 3.75(Already Advised)-Pulled Up.(-20pts)Ground looked like glue and the weakness in the market preceeded an awful run.

10th January

120 Warwick-This is a pretty good race.

Upepito should go well for last years winning stable while Greywell Boy ran well last time when a selection for us.

Its form figures over 2 miles on soft ground of 3rd-1st-1st-1st-2nd warrant plenty of respect.

Keel Haul has only had the one run over fences and needs to improve to figure but won both its hurdles starts at this track.

At a nice price however,Great Link appeals to me.Its won on a variety of ground and has only had just 4 runs over fences.

It drops in trip which should suit(its best hurdles rating came over this trip),is 3w-1p-4r between December and February and 3w-1p-8r in fields of 9 or less.

Back Great Link 6pts at 9.0(Already advised)-UP(-6pts)Money for it but everything went wrong.Horse whipped round at the start and that was more or less it.

145 Wetherby-Trying to work out horses runs in novice/Trial races is never easy but on my bare ratings,Beatabout The Bush has a far better chance than its current odds suggest.

This horse makes its handicap debut for a yard going pretty well.

I like the jockey booking and if theres a bit of support for it then i would anticpate a good run.

I couldnt give it each way because(lets face it) nothing i give each way ever places does it?

Kayf Blanco looks the main danger although Wordys Boy isnt out of it.

Rayadour has form figures of 1st-1st-7th when racing over today CD but even its best ratings dont look good enough.

Back Beatabout The Bush 4pts at 13.0 at various bookies(Accept 9.0)-Won(+48pts)Despite nearly getting knocked over down the back straight.This horse won pretty easy.(DT+42pts)

Monthly Total+237.50pts

Running Total+7421.79pts

9th January

1245 Huntingdon-One or two with potential in here but Johns Luck hasnt had that many chances and I just cant see it being out of the frame.

The horse tends to travel well,so the drop in trip should suit and although its creeping up the weights,its latest rating and speed figure suggests it up to this.

Its 1w-1p-2r going right handed and i expect to see it involved in the finish.

Belmount is lightly raced and makes its handicap debut while Bouggietopieces won on its handicap debut last time butit needs to improve on that to win this.

Back Johns Luck 4pts each way at 11.0(Already advised)-5th(-8pts)Hammered into 11/4 fav but ran pretty flat.

155 Huntingdon-Not a strong race featuring several with doubts over one thing or another.

Donapollo ran well last time over shorter,if it improves for the step up in trip then it will be a big danger to the one I like,Arbeo.

This horse has tumbled down the weights and is now 18Ibs lower than when it was a regular winner 2 seasons ago.

However it made an encouraging reappearance this season before disappointing badly last time out.

Its profile gives encourangement that it could return to the form of 2 starts back and if it can then it holds a class edge over these.

Its 1 from 1 at this track...2 from 4 when carrying 11st6 or more and 2 from 3 on easy tracks like this but perhaps most significantly,this horse comes into form after the new year has passed...From January to March its 4w-0p-6r.

Im not sure about Red Rouble over this distance,on this ground.I wouldnt mind coming to the last upsides it.

Back Arbeo 7pts at 7.0 at Corals(Accept 6.0)-Won(+42pts)Called the market correct again as it was punted into 2/1.Was given a fine ride to jump them silly.(DT+34pts)

Monthly Total+195.50pts

Running Total+7379.79pts

January 8th

310 Catterick-Last years winning stable of Sue Smith looks to have a decent chance of following up with Emral Silk.

This horse was staying on last time,posting a good rating in the process and the step up in trip to this course and distance where its 1 from 1 at,should be ideal.

This race is a drop in class and a horse that finished behind it last time,has already won its next start.

After only 7 starts in its career over hurdles,i would expect some more improvement and it should go very close.

Snowed In won last time over CD and should run well but it doesnt look a likely type to follow up.

Fearless Tunes makes its handicap debut,back from an absence and is respected but its needs to find some improvement to figure although thats not impossible.

Back Emral Silk 12pts at 4.5 at various bookies(Accept 4.3)-Won(+42pts)Given a very good patient ride to win very easily in the end.

Monthly Total+161.50pts

Running Total+7345.79pts

7th January

240 Taunton-Uranium didnt run that well on its return after 2 years off last time.That was its first run for the Venitia Williams stable,having previously ran in France.It wouldnt be the first horse from that yard this season,to hit top form after a quiet run since arriving from over the Channel.

If its reappearance run is as good as it is then it will have little chance here but anything close to its ratings in previous years then it would have a serious chance.

The trainer has a 23% strike rate with her chasers here but delve a little deeper and it gets better.

If you take her runners at this track,in January,in Handicap chases like this then the record improves to 4 from 8.

Money For Nothing is improving and lightly raced and is the obvious danger but the market knows that.

Back Uranium 12pts at 4,5(Already advised)-3rd(-12pts)Very weak pre race but looked to be coming to win when its jumping let it down over the last 2 fences.

230 Ludlow-Kingsmere needs the ground to dry out for it run to its best.On good ground it wouldnt be far away but its never been at its best on a softer surface.

Thats probably why its 0w-2p-7r during the winter months.0w-1p-8r going right handed is another negative while its 0w-3p-10r when carrying 11st5 or more.

Henri Parry Morgan looks sure to go close after a good run last time and with the yard in decent form.

Brandon Hill makes its handicap debut and needs to find a little on ratings but having posted a fine topspeed figure last time,it should be up to it.

Veauce De Sivola disappointed on its reappearance but on its best runs from last season,it would go very close.

Lay Kingsmere 20pts at 5.5(lay upto 6.0)-UP(+19pts after commission)(DT+7pts)

*Cancel or Trade out if Henri Parry Morgan,Brandon Hill or Veauce De Sivola dont run*

Monthly Total+119.50pts

Running Total+7303.79pts

6th January

220 Southwell-Kung Hei Fat Choy looks primed to follow up last seasons win in this race.

It races off the same mark as that win and this represents a drop in class.

Its 2 from 5 in January and is 3w-3p-11r when returning to the track within 7 days.

A repeat of its latest rating would see it going very close.

Best Tamayuz produced a career best last time but that was over a furlong further,it remains to be seen if it can repeat that back in trip.

Back Kung hei Fat Choy 12pts at 4.5 at Corals-Won(+42pts)Well backed and produced the goods.

Monthly Total+112.50pts

Running Total+7296.79pts

5th January

240 Lingfield-For a horse that comes from an out of form yard and went the wrong way last year,Marie Des Anges is a very short price.

The trainer is also 0 from 9 at this track and im keen to find some value elsewhere.

You feel a fool tipping up a 14yo but Nozic appeals on my ratings and just cannot be the outsider of this field.

It has no great record fresh but ran a sound race on his comeback run 32 days ago and if that run can be repeated,it could go close.

It will though at its age,depend on whether it fancied it or not,we should know our fate early.

At the other end of the scale,we have Lac Sacre,who has only 2 starts over fences but ran pretty well last time,its nicely handicapped off a mark 9Ib lower than it won off over hurdles and the trainer has stated he hoped it could be at least as good fences.

Gores Island is respected while Wicklewood won last time but is up in the weights,up in class and prefers racing the other way round(Left Handed 0w-5p-19r)

Back  Nozic 4pts at 13.0 at Betvictor/Paddy(Accept 11.0)-UP & Lac Sacre 4pts at 11.0 at various bookies(Accept 7.0)-3rd(-8pts)Nozic didnt want to know but Lac Sacre was staying on when it got badly hampered at the last.

310 Lingfield-Nouailhas has run 2 decent races the last twice but the fact remains its 1 from 32 in its career.

I wouldnt be amazed if it was on the premises but with the trainer being 0 from 19 here,I cant have it as market leader.

Gracie B is very interesting for a trainer with a decent record at this track.It steps up in trip for its handicap debut and is bred to be suited by it.

Dynamic Idol should be involved while Asker showed a lot more last time while Warsaw Pact is becoming nicely handicapped again.

Lay Nouailhas 20pts at 4.5(Lay upto 5.0)-Non Runner

3rd January

115 Sandown-Although its lightly raced,Madness Light does have a bit to prove here against other unexposed sorts and some pretty solid handicappers.

It fell on its seasonal debut but that race has worked out poorly and the trainer has a rare poor record here(0 from 25 with his hurdlers and chasers)

Tafika has form figures of 2nd-2nd-1st when encountering 2m4 on soft ground and should go well.

Until Winning is very unexposed after just the one run over fences while Golanova is also improving.

Granville Island looks solid while Frontier Spirit could really make them go,if it got loose in front.

Lay Madness Light 20pts at 6.0-UP(+20pts)

150 Sandown-Brick Red finished behind Mr Mole last time but there are reasons to believe it could turn that form around here.

Mr Mole looks best fresh,as a record of 5 from 5 after an absence of 80 days or more suggests but when(like today)it returns after 40 days or less then its record of 0w-3p-6r is far less appealing.Its still respected however as the trainer has won this 3 times in recent years.

The value has to be Brick Red though,as this horse doesnt start winning until the New year comes around(Jan/Feb 5w-2p-8r) and likes a recent run(28 days or less 4w-3p-12r)

It will love the ground and it should go close.

Williams Wishes has been very lightly raced in recent seasons but showed more last time,it would be a big danger if back to its best.

Back Brick Red 8pts at 6.5 at Corals/Bet365(Accept 5.5)-2nd(-8pts)Frustratingly looked like coming there to win but was carried across by the winner causing it to switch and couldnt get there.

240 Wincanton-Earthmoves moves into handicap company with a nice progressive profile.

Trip and ground are perfect and anything close to its latest novice win would be good enough.The trainer is 27% with his hurdlers here.

Provo is very difficult to assess but could be the biggest danger.

Volt Face needs to have come on for its latest seasonal debut but the trainer has won this race the last 2 times it was staged,so it has to be feared.

Back Earthmoves 11pts at 4.3 at various bookies-3rd(-11pts)Smashed into 6/5 but just never got there.

140 Newcastle-This could well turn out to be a war of attrition and what we need is a horse that loves very soft ground and stays a bit further than todays trip.

Soudain ticks those boxes and interestingly makes its stable debut for a yard that are 20% with their chasers here but as ever with this outfit,I would want it to stay solid in the betting at the very least.

Soudain is 3w-2p-6r on heavy ground and 4w-5p-12r in fields of 10 or less.Its clearly the one to beat for me.

Beauboreen moves upto 3 miles over fences for the first time and could be a threat while High Ron represents a yard that are 2 from 4 with their chasers here.

Back Soudain 12pts at 4.5 at various bookies.-2nd(-12pts)Probably went quick enough early on but ran a great race.(DT-12pts)

2nd Jan

110 Ffos Las-There is no rain forecast which should help the chances of Typical Oscar,who has looked progressive over fences.

Tom Scudamore is 3 from 11 when riding for this yard and a clear round of jumping would see it go very close.

Dixie Bull and Magical Man are both lightly raced over fences and are the dangers with the latter preferred,as the step up in trip should suit.

Armedanddangerous handles the ground but has lost its way the last 2 seasons.It will appreciate the drop in grade but the trainer is struggling for winners and is 0 from 14 here.

Back Typical Oscar 14pts at 3.5 at various bookies(Accept 3.0)-UP(ground went against it)

Lay Armedandangerous 20pts at 6.0-2nd(+6pts)(+5pts after commission)

310 Ayr-Mijhaar was listed class on the flat and is beginning to show that ability over hurdles.Its latest run in a higher grade puts it top rated and the jockey is 3 from 5 for this yard.

Unfortunately just as I was typing this out,this horse has shortened up.

3/1 was a fair enough price but 5/2 is borderline.Im still sending this as I believe it will win but anything shorter than the current price wont be value in my eyes.

Tikkandmickey looks the main danger but is 0w-0p-3r at this track.

Back Mijhaar 14pts at 3.5 at various bookies-2nd(-14pts)Didnt hurdle great but unfortunately,this horse was given far too much to do by the jockey.(DT-9pts)

Monthly Total+90.5pts

Running Total+7274.79pts

1st January

305 Cheltenham-Good race,with several proven performers like Rock on Ruby,that will prove a tough nut to crack at a track where its won twice but unusually for the yard,Silsol looks to be improving fast and underrated by the market.

It won first time out this season,when the trainer thought it wasnt fit enough,posting a good rating and decent speed figure.

It will need to continue its progression but if it does then it will be bang there.

Nicky Henderson has won this 3 times in the last 4 years,so both his representatives have to be respected.

Back Silsol 7pts at 7.0 at various bookies-UP(-7pts)Poor

335 Fakenham-I know nothing of the trainer of Vision Du Coeur,who looks like a newcomer to the ranks but she has acquired a horse from Ireland and I often find they can be well handicapped when racing in the UK.She steps it up in trip and that should suit as it was keeping on at the finish in its last race.

Gamain is the one to beat as it makes its handicap debut after a decent run last time.

Gilzean won on its seasonal debut last time and is respected on that but this is a rise in class into a grade where its 0w-1p-6r.

Back  Vision Du Coeur 6pts at 7.5 at Bet365(Accept 6.0)-Won(+60pts *Paid out BOG*)(DT+53pts)

135 Musselburgh-Viva Colonia can be a bit in and out but not when it races at this track,as form figures of 1st-1st-2nd show.

The 2nd was in this race last year and if it can reproduce that,it should win this for a trainer that is 10 from 26 with his chasers here.

Workbench has a good chance if it stays dry(Which looks unlikely) as its posted several good ratings this season but a record of 0w-1p-11r from December to April does sound a note of caution.

Shadrack is solid and should run its race but that may not be good enough.

Back Viva Colonia 7pts at 6.5 at various bookies-UP(-7pts)Weak as anything in the pre race market and ran accordingly

210 Musselburgh-This is a good race and though it may find its younger rivals being too much, surely Strongpoint is well overpriced.

A record of 3w-0p-5r here commands serious respect,particularly if the rain comes and I would expect a bold bid to repeat last years win in this race.

Hawk High and Stephanie Francis head the list of dangers.

Back Strongpoint 4pts at 15.0 at Totesport/WilliamHill(Accept 13.0)-2nd(-4pts)Ran a fine race.(DT+42pts)

320 Musselburgh-Last years winning stable look to have a strong hand again with the unexposed Fly Vinnie here.

The yard generally do well here(6 from 21 with their hurdlers) and im surprised this improver isnt shorter in the betting.

Capellanus would have a good chance on good ground but its a 6Ibs worse horse on soft ground and thats what im expecting.

Back Fly Vinnie 7pts at 7.0 at various bookies(Accept 5.5)-Won(+38.5pts *1 non runner)Hammered into favourite and absolutely hosed up.(DT+80.5pts)

150 Fakenham-The Omen has been consistent most of the season and drops in class here for a trainer that is 10 from 29 with his chasers here,it must go well.

Oxalido travels a long way for this race and although it hasnt done much over fences,the fact that the trainer is 1 from 2 when he does venture this far,has to be a positive.

Alright Benny produced a solid set of runs before running poorly last time,its 2w-1p-6r in this grade and is respected.

Icy Colt is 0w-0p-6r on sharp tracks like this,is 0w-1p-7r on ground worse than good and hails from a yard that are 0 from 26 at this track.It should be around a 10/1 chance for me.

Lay Icy Colt 20pts at 5.0-2nd(+20pts)(After commission+19pts)(DT+99.5pts)

Running Total+7283.79pts

31st December

310 Lingfield-Bosstime is progressive and although not proven around here,looks the one to beat.

What a Dandy is another in fine form and is also on the upgrade while Franco`s Secret has only had the one start in handicap company and should appreciate the step up in trip.

Stormbound will probably run its race but it is 5Ibs above its highest winning mark and is 0 from 5 here.

Lay Stormbound 20pts at 5.0-UP(+20pts)

340 Lingfield-Against a field of exposed performers,it wouldnt be the greatest surprise if handicap debutante Bush Warrior improves past everything.

It returns after a lay off after being gelded and with cheek pieces on and unusually for an all weather race apart from Pharoah Jake(3 wins from 29 starts here) most of the field arent proven here.

In fact the likes of Give Us a Belle,Excellent Aim(Both 0w-0p-4r at Lingfield) and Imjin River(0w-1p-6r) have a lot to prove.

Back Bush Warrior 12pts at 4.0 at various bookies-3rd(-12pts)-Very disappointing month to end apart from a couple of months,a pretty ordinary year.Far too many losing months.

Days total minus commission+7pts

Monthly Total-25.25pts

Running Total+7184.29pts

30 December

220 Lingfield-Brocklebank has been in good form but will find this tougher off top weight,down in trip.

I like Rebellious Guest,who has been a bit in and out but a closer look reveals a better chance than the odds suggest.

Its form figures over this course and distance read 4th-4th-1st-1st...It drops down in class to a grade where its 2 from 3.

In fields of 7 or less its 3w-1p-5r and this trainer has a 26% strike rate when bringing a horse back to the track within 7 days.

Beach Bar won its maiden here and is probably the main danger.

Back Rebellious Guest 7pts at 7.5(Already advised)-3rd(-7pts)13/2 into 7/4 and finished 3rd.You couldnt make it up!

130 Taunton-Friendly Society handles soft ground and stays this trip on decent ground but whether it can stay it on this ground is a concern but it looks to hold a class edge on my figures that im hoping it can cruise through the race.Certainly finding dangers isnt easy.

This horse clearly likes to give weight to inferior rivals as a record of 2w-0p-5r when carrying 11st12 or more shows.

Wayne Hutchinson is 2 from 5 for this yard and for me,if it stays the trip properly,it will win.

Cash Injection ran ok last time but is 0w-2p-12r on sharp tracks and 0w-1p-14r when returning to the track within 14 days.

Back Friendly Society 12pts at 4.5 at various bookies(Accept 4.0)-UP(-12pts)(DT-19pts)

330 Taunton-Howlongisafoot ran well on its chasing debut and should go close if coping with the step up in trip.

Theatre Queen returns after an absence but really could be capable of a lot more after 2 wins under rules.

At its best ,Days Ahead would go close but it does normally need a run or two after an absence,so Opening Batsman should be the other involved.

Rally ran quite well last time over shorter but It needs to prove it wants this trip and the trainer is just 1 from 37 with his chasers here.

Lay Rally 20pts at 6.0-UP(Wasnt Matched)

29th December

135 Newbury-Highland Lodge drops in class but hasnt been at its best this season so far.

It hasnt passed the post first since 2012 and is 0w-0p-3r at this track.It faces some unexposed,improving rivals and is far too short for me.

Knockanrawley and Ziga Boy are both lightly raced and shouldnt be far away while Financial Climate won this race last year.

It disappointed last time but is back on its last winning mark and is 1 from 2 at the trip.

Lay Highland Lodge 20pts at 4.5(Lay upto 5.5)-UP(+20pts)

Days total minus commission+19pts

28th December

130 Catterick-Benefit in Kind was well backed when getting off the mark on just its 3rd start over fences and looks to have a decent opportunity here to follow up.

It has the services of top Northern Jockey Brian Hughes and the trainer is 4 from 8 with his horses here.

Romany Ryme improved for the fitting of a visor last time but isnt proven over this far 

Foot the Bill is consistent but exposed.

Back Benefit in Kind 20pts at Paddys-Fell(-20pts)In front when it fell 3 fences from home.Sums it all up at the moment.

Monthly Total-32.25pts

Running Total+7177.29pts

27th December

225 Southwell-Kung Hei Fat Choy came back to form last time over a furlong shorter and appears nicely handicapped off a mark 4Ibs lower than its last win.

Its got 3 wins and 4 2nd places to its name from 13 starts around here and is 3w-2p-10r in December and January.

Its a tight race but it really should be vying for favouritism.

Starfield is 1 from 1 around here and could be another multiple winner at this track for a yard that does so well here but its short enough in the market.

Royal Holiday and Toto Skyllachy arent out of it whil Naoise has to prove itself on the surface.

Back Kung Hei Fat Choy 8pts at 6.0 at bet365/paddys(Accept 5.0)-3rd(-8pts)

26th December

105 Wincanton-Quick Decisson has only had the 3 starts over fences and on my figures,is improving.

Its form stands up and the 2m2f trip may just have been a shade too far last time.Back over 2miles on a flat,galloping track,I would expect even better.

This horse won 3 from 4 over hurdles at this track and is 2w-0p-4r in January/December.

Im amazed its not clear favourite.

For some reason,that honour has gone to Un Majeur Aulmes.On its best last season ratings,it would hold a place chance but no more than that.

Malibu Sun needs the ground to dry out while Un Anjou is up in class and is 0w-0p-4r on galloping tracks.

Upepito hasnt shown that much since joining Venitia Williams yard but she has won this race 3 times in the last 7 years,if the money comes then its a threat.

Back Quick Decisson 15pts at 5.5(Accept 3.0)-UP(-15pts)Well backed into 5/2 but went off a million miles an hour and had nothing left.

310 Kempton-You have to respect the trainer although he is 0 from 3 at this track but it appears to me that Champagne Fever has been priced up on what it done over hurdles rather than whats its achieved on its 5 runs over fences.It needs to find a stone of improvement for the step up in trip and thats a big ask.Im happy to take it on.

Silviniaco Conti looks rock solid,top rated,4w-2p-6r around sharp tracks like this and the trainer has won this race 6 times in the last 8 years.

Menorah finished behind it last time but may get closer today on better ground and at a track it loves(Kempton 3w-1p-4r)

I can see Dynaste running well while Al Ferof and Cue Card are other strong runners to take the lay on with.

Lay Champagne Fever 20pts at 6.0-Lost(+20pts)(DT+5pts)

320 Market Rasen-Afficionado just won on its stable debut last time and if reproducing that,will run well while Make me a Fortune is improving but Ourmanmassini reverts back to hurdles after a poor run over fences.On its last attempt over hurdles,it ran very well in a hot event at Cheltenham.It was very well backed that day and clearly thought capable of winning off this mark.Its rating and speed figure back that up and it could be a touch of value.

*No Prices yet*

Back OurmanMassini 7pts at 7.0 or better(9.0)-(-7pts)

1245 Huntingdon-For its sheer consistency,Kings Apollo is the one to beat here.Its no world beater but nor are its rivals and after only just 5 starts over fences,there could still be more to come.

Finding obvious rivals isnt easy but Roseneath is 2 from 3 around here,so may well be the biggest danger.

*No Prices Yet*

Back Kings Apollo 12pts at 4.3 or better-UP(-12pts)Looked like it went far too quick and was beaten down the back straight.(DT-14pts)

210 Towcester-This isnt a bad little race for this track,featuring a few in form horses.

The one that catches my eye is Devenish Island ,who steps up in trip on its handicap debut at a track where it won its bumper.

Its latest rating over shorter suggests this could be a decent opening mark and I can see it being supported and going very close.

Obistar and Kapricorne are the dangers.

*No Prices Yet*

Back Devenish Island 12pts at 3.75-(-12pts)

155 Sedgefield-Since being fitted with a hood,Jukebox Melody has burst to life with 2 emphatic wins.This horse jumps out near or in front and gradually turns the screw on its opponents with a relentless gallop.Despite a rise in the weights for its latest win,it still looks well weighted on my figures.

*No Prices Yet*

Back Jukebox Melody 20pts at 3.0 or better -UP(-20pts)Just too bad to be true(DT-46pts)

Worst Boxing Day ive ever had!

21st December

2.0 Fakenham-This is a decent little race and course specialist Full Ov Beans looks a bit of value to me.

This horse has form figures around here of 1F1U1121 and its possible it could get loose in front.In races where its led,its won 4 from 6.

The 7Ib claimer is 1 from 1 on the horse and it should give us a good run for our money.

My Oh Mount Brown has only the one run over fences and surely has more to come.

Its got a strong profile,10 runners or less 4w-3p-10r and 4 from 6 over this trip.

Billy Twyford is another one unexposed over fences while Southway Star has been in fine form but over further.

Back Full Ov Beans 8pts at 6.0 at Bet365(Accept 5.0)-Won(+64pts Paid at BOG)Nice drift to 8/1 and never saw another horse.

Monthly Total+41.75pts

Running Total+7251.29pts

20th December

1245 Ascot-The Tourard Man makes its handicap debut here and on my figures,looks to have got in on a decent mark.

Each run has seen a nice progression in its ratings and its taken to win this probably from Rascal ,who won well last time.

Back The Tourard Man 12pts at 4.5 at various bookies-2nd(-12pts)Well backed and touched 1.4 in running.Winner was brave in front.

1230 Haydock-Back to Bracka is lightly raced over fences and is very much respected but the yard is struggling at the moment and there appears to be some value elsewhere.

Whispering Harry is also unexposed over fences after just 3 runs and going back left handed should help(4w-0p-10r),its 4w-0p-9r in fields of 9 or less and 4w-2p-12r when retruning after 28 days or less absence from the track.

Greywell Boy also interests me.Its last 2 runs have been over further and the return to 2 miles on very soft ground look ideal(Form Figures of 1st-1st-1st-2nd when encountering that scenario),3w-2p-7r in fields of 9 or less and the trainer is 8 from 27 with his runners at this track.

Back Whispering Harry 6pts at 8.0 at Various bookies(Accept 6.0)-1st and Greywell Boy 7pts at 7.0 at Ladbrokes(Accept 6.0)-3rd(+35pts)

205 Haydock-This is wide open with several holding chances.

Toby Lerone looks vulnerable stepped upto 3 miles(0w-0p-8r over 2m6+) and the majority arent that well handicapped.

So although stepping up markedly in class,im going to risk a bit on Red Admirable.This horse needs to improve a little to win this but thats not impossible after just 2 chase starts and 1 run over this trip,Its totally unexposed under these circumstances.

Back Red Admirable 4pts at 13.0 at various bookies(Accept 10.0)-UP(-4pts)(DT+19pts)

240 Haydock-With a record over hurdles of 4w-4p-9r,Red Ructions Run would look to hold very solid prospects here.A repeat of its run on its seasonal debut over course and distance,would see it tough to beat here.

Taj Badalandabad is unexposed,from a top yard and is easily the biggest danger.

Back Red Ructions Run 9pts at 5.5 at various bookies(Accept 4.5)-2nd(-9pts)Held up miles off the pace.Front runner got away and won easy.

140 Newcastle-If Firth Of Clyde stays the trip then it will probably win this but its a big if in my opinion.

The trainer stated after it won last season that it may stay this trip on an easy track.Newcastle on very soft ground couldnt be regarded as an easy track.

Un Guet Apens is another that looks better at shorter(0w-0p-3r over this trip).

I can see the finish being fought out by Indian Voyage and Edmund,who both hold similar chances but the latter is the bigger price and has to be the selection.

Its 2w-0p-4r record at this track and the trainer being 6 from 20 with her chasers here,add to its chance.

Back Edmund 7pts at 7.0 at various bookies(Accept 6.0)-4th(-7pts)Well backed but never quite got into it.(+3pts)

Monthly Total-22.25pts

Running Total+7187.29pts

19th December

No Selections

18th December

250 Exeter-Sun Wild Life ran well on its chasing debut,posting a fine rating and good speed figure.The step up in trip should be fine but what interests me most is this trainer doesnt send many here but is 2 from 4 with his handicap chasers when he does.

Trickaway won on its chase debut and is a big danger while The Happy Warrior has been in consistent form but im not certain about the drop in trip and the trainer is 1 from 41 with his handicap chasers here.

Back Sun Wild Life 8pts at 6.0 at Ladbrokes and Paddys(Accept 5.0)-2nd(-8pts)The poor form continues.This horse gave it a good go but never really looked like winning.

17th December

150 Ludlow-May Be Some Time has been gradually finding its form this term and its last run,signalled that it could be ready to hit the form of some of its novice runs last season.

Anything close to them,would see it having a serious chance here and it does have one of the best jockeys in this ladies only race.

Rolling Dough won this race last season and shouldnt be far away in a repeat bid while Grimley Girl has run well since joining this yard and I would be concerned if this horse got a solo on front but if the selection can reach last seasons best then the price is far too big.

Back May Be Some Time 6pts at 9.0 at Bet365/Corals(Accept 7.0)-4th(-6pts)Betting said not today and the ride made sure of it.

16th December

1225 Southwell-Best Tamayuz has been in very good form and is 2w-1p-4r at this track.It looks certain to be involved in the finish.

Arabian Flight also goes well here and represents a jockey/trainer combination that are 9 from 29 in handicaps at this track.

Burnhope was below par last time but that was at Wolverhampton and it hasnt got a decent run to its name there,back here it would have serious chances based on its run over course and distance 2 runs back.

Wotalad has been pretty consistent but is 1 from 23 in its career.Its best Southwell rating doesnt match up to the three mentioned and it looks a vulnerable 2nd fav.

Lay Wotalad 20pts at 5.5-UP(+20pts)Traded at 4.0 after about 100 yards before weakening right out of it.

Days total minus commission+19pts

Monthly Total-11.25

Running Total+7198.29

15th December

145 Plumpton-Itoldyou looks rock solid to run its race here.Its been in very consistent form this season,has a fine 2w-1p-4r record over this trip,the jockey has won twice on it and is back in the saddle after being amateur ridden last time and this is also a drop in class.It should go close.

Theres been early money for Vikekhal,from a yard that have this race twice in the last 3 years.Its 1 from 1 here but was pretty keen in front last time and stamina has to be a concern here.Its 0w-1p-8r in fields of 10 or less like this.

Browns Brook is well handicapped if it fancies it but hasnt so far this season while Ballyvoneen loves it here but this is a better race than it usually contests.

Back Itoldyou 12pts at 4,5 at various bookies(Accept 4.0)-Fell

255 Plumpton-Xaarcet represents a yard going well but I have no idea what its doing as 2nd favourite.Its a very inconsistent horse,hasnt been in great form over hurdles and showed very little the last time it was over fences.

IntheJungle returns after 646 days off and there has been money for it.Its 3 wins from 4 here and with the support,you have to respect it but its a big ask.

Alright Benny has been in solid form and has 2 wins to its name here.it couldnt dominate last time and didnt like it but interestingly is also,0w-0p-8r when carrying over 11stone like today.The yard won this race last year but have been struggling of late.

For me,the most likely to run its race is The Informant,who ran well behind a subsequent winner last time.

It is 2 from 4 around here,4w-1p-13r in fields of 10 or less and 4w-0p-7r when returning to the track within 21 days and this is the time of year when it tends to start winning(December to May 4w-1p-11r)

Jockey Ryan Mahon is 2 from 2 on the horse at this track.

Back The Informant 12pts at 4.5(Accept 4.0)-Pulled UP(-24pts)Complete waste of time.

14th December

No Selections

13th December

1155 Doncaster-Roc Dapsis is still lightly raced over fences and produced a career best last time,when returning to form around Kempton.

That is the best rating in this race and was backed up by a good topspeed figure.

It does belt the odd fence and it will need to jump around here but given a solid round of jumping,it will go very close.

Robbie goes well here and wont be far away but is off a career high mark now.

Hi George is lightly raced but is 0w-1p-7r in this grade and unseated its rider last time.

Back Roc Dapsis 12pts at 4.5 at various bookies-4th(-12pts) Didnt jump well enough.

105 Doncaster-Trainer John Quinn has a fine 10 wins from 23 runs record with his hurdlers here in the last 5 years and holds good prospects of improving that record with Kashmir Peak.This horse has only had 8 starts over hurdles and looks to still be improving.Its 1 out of 1 at this track and is 2w-0p-4r in fields of 9 or less like this.

First Mohican makes its handicap debut and is probably the danger.Im no big fan of the jockey but as an unexposed horse,it has to be respected.

Nicky Henderson has won this race twice in the last 3 years,so on that basis,Laudatory is feared but isnt at its best on very soft ground.

Back Kashmir Peak 12pts at 4.5 at Various bookies(Accept 4.0)-Won(+42pts)Given a perfect ride and stayed on well.(DT+30pts)

140 Doncaster-Forgotten Gold appeals to me as the value in a pretty tight race.

It ran well last time,getting close to last seasons best.Is 3w-2p-9 in fields of 9 or less and 2w-2p-5r when retuning to the track within 28 days like today.

Night of Milan won this race last year may well have been teed for a repeat after a couple of quiet runs over hurdles but it probably prefers slight better ground.

Grandads Horse should run well but its trainer is 0 from 18 with his chasers here and that has to be a worry.

Herdsman ran just okay on its seasonal debut but has won second time out for the last 2 seasons,it could be the main danger.

Back Forgotten Gold 10pts at 5.0 at various bookies(Accept 4.3)-4th(-10pts)Money came late but was very one paced.(DT+20pts)

325 Domcaster-Quite a few have questions to answer here and there isnt many that can be seriously fancied.

Serenity Now is a fair enough favourite after a good run on its handicap debut last time.If it repeats that effort then it will be tough to beat but I dont see why the gap in prices is so big between it and Light The City,who finished just behind it last time.

This horse hasnt had many chances itself over hurdles and is 2w-1p-7r in small fields and 2w-1p-4r in December.

Back Light The City 7pts at 6.5 at various bookies(Accept 5.0)-UP(-7pts)Small profit on the day(DT+13pts)

Monthly Total-6.25pts

Running Total+7203.29pts

12th December

315 Cheltenham-Big Easy takes a drop in class here after posting the best rating in this race,last time out.

This horse has won at this track and after winning the Cesarewitch on good ground,on the flat then you would think that it could be capable of even better on this decent ground.

Its clearly the one to beat for me.

It meets a very progressive horse in Ulzana`s Raid.Its possible this horse could improve past everything but this is a rise in class and its as of yet,to post a topspeed figure of any note.

Guiding George isnt out of it also as it hasnt been with its new yard long.

Back Big Easy 12pts at 4.0 at various bookies-2nd(-12pts)Strong in the market but missed so many hurdles,particularly the last two,and got beaten in a photo.