Mr Walt worth a bet

The first division of the Clare's Last Day Maiden Chase at Sedgefield today looks a race that ought to be of interest to value-seeking punters.

Lothian Commander is likely to start at a short price but a close examination of his form suggests he is very much one to take on.

Despite form figures that promise consistency and a degree of quality, the six-year-old has only managed to beat three horses in four outings over fences and appears not to be showing any progress with his races.

But such is the dire level of form on offer from his rivals that Lothian Commader's proven ability to at least complete the course guarantees his place at the forefront of the betting market.

However, a better option may be found in Mr Walt, who is trained by Malcolm Jefferson. The Malton handler has some much better horses than this one, but connections can be rewarded for their patience with this son of Bedford.

He was obviously not right first time out this term when pulled up at Carlisle, but has been given a break and pieces of his form over hurdles last term suggest he might have the beating of this poor bunch.

While many horses will struggle to see out the three miles, three and a half furlongs of the Acropola Handicap Hurdle, Mr Mahdlo will relish every stamina-sapping yard. Given his style of running, an improved performance over this extra distance seems most likely.

Off a plater's mark, Mr Mahdlo is well worth a decent interest and earns the day's nap vote.

Grizzly Bear won nicely last time out and appeals as the sort to pick up a few prizes from a low handicap mark over the coming months.

Promising amateur Sam Stronge keeps the mount for his father and the pair can pick up a decent prize in the Ladbroke Chase at Lingfield.

China Castle's recent run of success has left him looking beatable at the head of the weights for the Salmon Handicap at Wolverhampton.

Although he has been running at the top of his form of late, the handicapper has now had his say and he must race here off a mark of 86, which could prove the six-year-old's downfall.

Godmersham Park is taken to improve for this trip and provided he is ridden patiently, looks the best choice for punters.