KERSTINO TWO (2.25) bids to confirm he's one of the most improved National Hunt horses in training by nabbing Newbury's totesport Handicap Chase.

Jamie Snowdon's mount began the season by scoring off a mark of 92 at Ludlow, but that was just for starters and having won again at Huntingdon and Ludlow, his handicap rating has shot through the roof to 129.

Although very few individuals can withstand such astronomic hikes, Kerstino Two has given every indication he's fully capable of taking the handicapper's best shots right on the chin and still return to the ring throwing big punches.

Furthermore, the seven-year-old is a punter's dream, that is to say he has stamina in spades, jumps like a mountain gazelle, and is prepared to get his head down and battle when the going gets tough.

Reach For The Top (12.50), who races in the famous Jim Lewes' claret and blue colours sported by Best Mate, has a golden opportunity to open his account by taking the Axminster Novices' Handicap Chase.

Trainer Henrietta Knight's charge admittedly came out second best to An Accordion when the pair clashed at Leicester, but the latter looks every inch Cheltenham Festival material, which puts an entirely different complexion on the defeat.

Perhaps one of the most cogent arguments for supporting Reach For The Top revolves around the fact that with one eye fixed firmly on the future, jockey Timmy Murphy eased his partner once their chance had gone.

In the following two-mile Maiden Hurdle, Oco (1.20) brings some smart form to the table, having previously occupied third spot in a red-hot Cheltenham event on his sole venture over the sticks.

It doesn't take rocket science to work out Oco is going to be much more streetwise for that initial foray, invaluable experience which should help him maintain trainer Alan King's purple patch.

Serious worries are emerging about the state of Wolverhampton's all-weather track after a spate of fallers at the course during the past few weeks.

I suspect they might temporarily suspend action at the Midlands venue if there are any more such incidents.

However, in the meantime let's hope Uhuru Peak (5.20) can stay on his feet for the Ian Griffiths Handicap.

Despite Mick Easterby's gelding failing to justify favouritism on a disappointing visit to Southwell in November, he's definitely worth another shot at goal, having previously finished second over today's course and distance.