BALDER SUCCES is a nervy individual but a very talented horse. It didn’t really happen for him last season after a promising start and the fact he was hampered and knocked over by the loose Grandouet in the Champion Hurdle kind of summed up his season. But he has always looked like a chaser and he is up against Easter Day and a couple of other likely types today (4.15) on his fencing debut at Chepstow. Balder Succes has had two runs on the flat recently and should be fit, so it will be fascinating to see how he copes with the fences. A comfortable victory will provide a huge confidence boost. The sky could be the limit over 2m-2m 4f.

Earlier WOOLY BULLY has a good chance of sparking a double for Alan King. He showed good stamina and also jumped really well when winning at Fontwell and the long straight at Chepstow should suit, although the Nick Williams and Paul Nicholls newcomers look menacing.

The Charlie Longsdon team is flying with nine winners in the past week or so. PETE THE FEAT was a revelation last term and he is the type of character that gives National Hunt racing its enduring appealing. He won five on the bounce last season, which saw his mark rise from 94 to 137. The way the Longsdon horses are going you wouldn’t bet against him going in first time in the 5.45 at Chepstow.

The big handicap hurdle is not as competitive as usual so SWNYMOR could be capable of defying top weight, especially with his useful claimer taking off 5lb, Handazan looks on a fair mark and could run into a place.