15:00 Ludlow

After chasing home the promising Broomfield Burg I liked what I saw from BLACK POPPY (best price 7/2) in the closing stages at Hereford last month. He showed a great attitude under pressure to get back up and hit the line with a bit to spare despite the winning margin. I think these softer conditions are likely to suit him and up 5lb he still looks well treated. He has plenty of experience to draw upon and still looks open to further improvement. I know he isn’t a huge price but I did think he’d be favourite so 7/2 is worth snapping up. A Distant Place is fav after winning by 5 lengths last time. He is very consistent but he’ll need more to follow up. Coolnaugh Haze looked promising winning at Plumpton and could pose a greater threat to the selection. His opening mark looks fair but he is still quite a raw horse and might just need more time to be seen to best effect.