LAC DE CONSTANCE came up with an uncharacteristic error when parting company with Harry Skelton at Kempton but his previous work has stood up to scrutiny and he’s worthy of another chance. The official handicapper rates Stage Star some 3lb inferior in this discipline but Paul Nicholls’ inmate has won two of three outings over fences so far and cannot be ruled out. Grand Voyage won a novice handicap at Ayr in November and will scoop a decent wedge if completing the course.
Grand Voyage (FR) 10-3 (10-5) Held up, closed on leaders 4 out, every chance next, ridden after last, ran on but not pace of leaders near finish, 4th of 6, 3l behind Grandads Cottage (10-6) at Wetherby 2m 3f hcp (3) sft in Dec.
Lac De Constance (FR) 13-8fav (11-4) Raced wide tracking leader, bad blunder and unseated rider 8th, at Kempton 2m (1) sft in Dec.
Stage Star (IRE) 1-9fav (11-7) Led, shaken up and went clear after 2 out, kept on well flat, comfortably, won at Plumpton 2m 4f (3) sft in Jan beating Mortlach (11-12) by 11l, 2 ran.
