14:00 taunton Thursday 8th January 2026

Trainer Paul Nicholls looks to have a smart recruit on his hands in POURQUOI PAS PAPA (9) who caught the eye when travelling strongly at Sandown Park last month. Will improve from that experience and finding a winnable maiden may get off the mark. Hard to beat. CREST OF STARS (2) looks to be gradually improving of late having finished third at Plumpton. Rates as the main danger. EXPLODE (8) was not disgraced on either hurdle appearances to date including a decent contest at Newbury three weeks ago. Worth a second look. Watch the betting for the chances of ANTHRACITE (1) who returns off a 626 day absence.