Timeform UK SmartPlays: Sunday October 25

Aintree 13:55 - Sykes

The lightly-raced Sykes got off the mark over hurdles in good style at Worcester last year and made a promising return when finishing runner-up at Newton Abbot last month. That effort suggested that Sykes is fairly treated, whilst this step up in trip and the fact his capable rider can claim 6 lb is a further positive.

Aintree 15:00 - Work In Progress

The Dan Skelton-trained Work in Progress showed definite signs of encouragement in this sphere last term and wasn't hard pressed to open his account at Kempton last week. He is very much of interest back in handicaps and, with the prospect of more to come, he looks a good bet to provide his excellent trainer with another winner.

Aintree 15:30 - Johns Spirit

Johns Spirit has been successful on his reappearance for the past two seasons and he looks to hold excellent claims here. Johns Spirit is only 1 lb higher than when finishing a close-up second in the ultra-competitive Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham, and he put up a few respectable efforts at the highest level last season, signing off for the campaign with a third over C&D in the Melling Chase. There are a number of dangers, notably the talented-but-error-prone Buywise and Topham winner Rajdhani Express, but Johns Spirit looks the most solid proposition.

Timeform UK SmartPlays: (All at Aintree)

Back Sykes in the 13:55
Back Work In Progress in the 15:00
Back Johns Spirit in the 15:30