Malcolm Jefferson’s Cloudy Dream may have just been touched off in the Old Roan Chase at Aintree on Sunday, but he ran a cracking trial for the BetVictor Gold Cup and was trimmed from 16s to 12/1 by the sponsors for next month’s feature race at Cheltenham’s November meeting.

Ballycool (2.30) is 8lbs lower than when winning over 2m 4f at Bangor last August and he ran a very good race over the same C&D when last seen two months ago. The handicapper has seen fit to leave him on the same mark and the hope is the 10-year-old will not be inconvenienced by today’s drop back in trip on his return to the north Wales track. If he gets a good gallop to follow, he should be finishing better than most.

In the Chepstow opener, High Noon (1.15) finished a place in front of Out Of Style in a Stratford Bumper in the spring and the Emma Lavelle trained gelding can make a winning debut over timber in what promises to be a most informative novice hurdle.

The Kim Bailey yard have struck form in recent days and Bandon Roc, who has the scope to jump a fence, was in great form when last seen over timber in the spring. His hat-trick of wins were all gained on right-handed tracks, however, and he is overlooked on his chase although a check of the market is recommended.

Vinnie Lewis (1.45) was a well-beaten third on his chase debut for Harry Whittingham but he shaped with considerable promise on that occasion, has been dropped a couple of pounds by the handicapper and is entitled to come on for the experience. The point-to-point winner Capote hasn’t been seen on the track for over 1300 days but the handicapper has certainly given him a chance and he would be very interesting if the market spoke in his favour.

I’m convinced there are races to be won with Ramses De Teillee in the handicap hurdle but I am concerned about the form of the David Pipe yard and Wylde Magic (2.50) looked a promising staying hurdler when last seen and can give Evan Williams a winner in his first-time tongue tie. The selection is stepped up to 3m for the first time this afternoon, but this winning Bumper performer often suggested he would be well served by a thorough test in a light campaign last season.

At Catterick on the level Tontos Spirit has been raised 9lbs for making all over 1m 6f at the last meeting at the north Yorkshire track. He landed a nice touch for connections on that occasion and must go close if in the same mood, but he faces a battle for the lead this afternoon with In Focus another who likes to race prominently.

With plenty of pace in the race I hope the race develops into a true test of stamina which should suit top-weight Attention Seeker (2.40) who will have to put up a career best to oblige but has won two of her last three starts and can reward each way support.

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