For the last few years I have been at Ripon for the William Hill Great St Wilfrid.

Last year I did a slot on Channel 4 Racing before driving the not inconsiderable distance to Ripon, to host various sponsor engagements. I do hope that the big race at Ripon goes well, as the racecourse team are some of the nicest people you could meet in racing.

Turning to the big sprint and Maarek would hose up if he could recapture his best form, but you’d need to have the patience of a saint to assume he could do that. Nameitwhatyoulike won the race last year and despite recording only one win since then, the handicapper has remarkably let him sneak in a pound lower than last year. It’s not appreciably more difficult this time around and he is worth the nomination.

2014 winner Out Do is in good form after victory in the Wokingham, but looks high enough in the weights. Growl heads the betting market and looks sure to be in the thick of it after a good Stewards’ Cup run. Pipers Note has an excellent record at the track and is respected, while Eastern Impact looks on a feasible mark to get involved.

The Group 2 Hungerford Stakes has fewer runners but is just as tricky for a punter. This is the time where Librisa Breeze should show his class and should go close.

Nathra is a strong beast and it looks like John Gosden has found a good opportunity for her. Her blow-out at Ascot last time should have removed the cobwebs and she should have a top chance, as should stablemate Daban, who has only had four starts and remains with potential. A tough call but a Nathra/Daban first two home isn’t beyond the realms of possibility. Best of luck with your punting.