Songsmith can cure post-Cheltenham blues at Uttoxeter

The Midlands National is the feature race as racing returns to normal after the thrills and spills of Cheltenham festival this week. One-time Gold Cup hope Harry Topper heads a high quality field for the big race.

Trainer Kim Bailey decided that the going was too fast for his stable star at the festival and he runs here with 11st 12lb to carry. His inclusion has left almost half of the field out of the handicap with Wyck Hill among those most likely to benefit.

The JP McManus owned gelding won the Eider Chase in great style last time out and has a leading chance off an 8lbs higher mark. Goulanes and Sun Cloud are other fancied runners in a wide open contest.

The handicap hurdle at 2.15 is another very competitive heat but Songsmith could be the one to be on. The six-year-old made a remarkable comeback after a lengthy absence to chase home the useful Full Shift at Kempton at odds of 40-1.

The winner did not exactly frank the form at Cheltenham on Friday but it was still a fair effort. Philip Hobbs enjoyed festival success with Balthazar King and Fingal Bay and he saddles Irish Buccaneer.

He has not run for almost a year but his trainer is a master at producing them after a long layoff. Liberty One and Indian Daudaie are coming here in winning form.

Sue Smith and Ryan Mania team up with hat-trick seeking Pinerolo in the 2.40. He battled back bravely last time out and looks sure to give a good account of himself again here.

Dare To Endeavour is also seeking a hat-trick while Kris Cross makes the trip down from Scotland for Lucinda Russell. Toby Lerone and Lamb Or Cod are also consistent and have each-way chances.

Jonjo O’Neill is still on cloud nine after More Of That won the World Hurdle. Victories for Taquin Du Seuil and Holywell completed a fantastic week for Jackdaws Castle.

He can kick off proceedings with a winner in Rosslyn Castle at 2.05. Harry Fry’s Fletchers Flyer can take the closing bumper at 5.35.