14:45 ludlow Monday 5th January 2026

Good looking contest for the grade. MINELLA BLUEWAY (3) is a former course winner. Managed to take a small step forward last month when third at Chepstow and though this will require more he cannot be ruled out revisiting this venue. SILVER THORN (2) represents the in-form combination of Harry Cobden and Emma Lavelle. Was an impressive 13L winner at Doncaster four weeks ago and is hard to fault. If putting it all together STRACKAN (1) could prove difficult to stop having needed his first outing of the season at Aintree fifty eight days ago. NOT SURE (5) looks vulnerable to younger contenders. In good condition following two second place finishes and warrants thought.