Timeform UK SmartPlays: Wednesday January 15

It's a competitive novices' hurdle from Newbury under consideration first (13:50) and it contains a number of interesting contenders. Point winner Full Shift was heavily backed prior to making a winning debut over timber at Newcastle last time and should leave the bare form of that contest behind him, but narrow preference goes to Brother Brian who has improved significantly on each of his starts this term, last time when beating Tistory over C&D here. He looks capable of progressing further and could turn out to be a useful prospect in time. Herons Heir and Zulu Oscar look dangers if able to convert their bumper form. 

We remain at the Berkshire track for our second bet of the day in the bumper over an extended 12 furlongs (15:35) and Diaktoros looks to have found the perfect opportunity to go one better than his excellent second at Wetherby last time. He found only a potentially useful filly too good that day and the pair were well clear of the chasing pack. With McCoy booked, gaining compensation is well within his compass and it would be no surprise to see him post an impressive performance on his way to bigger things. The regally-bred Palermo Don looks a significant threat on paper on his first start for Donald McCain. 

Our final pick comes from the All Weather at Kempton, where Alutiq looks the form pick in the six-furlong Conditions Stakes (18:25). She is in receipt of 5 lb and, given her unbeaten record on this surface, she looks to have an excellent chance. She ran creditably in some of the top contests for her sex last season and even if she was found wanting for ability, this looks a much more suitable contest and well within her reach. Ticking Katie, also in receipt of a fillies' allowance, looks the main danger after a string of creditable and consistent efforts last summer. 

Timeform UK SmartPlays

Back Brother Brian @ 3.259/4 in the 13:50 at Newbury
Back Diaktoros @ 3.185/40 in the 15:35 at Newbury
Back Alutiq @ 2.747/4 in the 18:25 at Kempton