Timeform UK SmartPlays: Wednesday, December 27

Top Gamble - 13:05 Chepstow

The ground in the Hilly Way Chase at Cork was basically unracable and proved too grueling even for Top Gamble, but he is a multiple winner on soft/heavy and should hopefully find conditions here more suitable (even though it is expected to be very testing). This is the first time he's been in a handicap since finishing third at Cheltenham last New Year's Day from 5 lb higher in the weights, and he could be ready to strike with Richard Johnson - who has won on him before - back on board. O Maonlai didn't fire on his return but is on a good mark if he fancies it.

Brandon Hill - 15:05 Kempton

Tom George has an excellent record in this handicap, winning two of the last three runnings, and his only entrant in this year's race, Brandon Hill, looks a very interesting runner this time. Brandon Hill shaped as if he'd come on for his first run for George/reappearance at Ascot last month, jumping boldly and travelling well before being collared, and the handicapper has taken a chance by leaving him on the same mark. He should get his own way out in front and prove hard to catch.

Chatez - 15:40 Kempton

Chatez shaped really well on his return from a big absence when second on the Flat at Leicester last time and, potentially still well treated on his form in that sphere (rated in the high-90s) now back over hurdles, he makes plenty of appeal, especially with the test of speed that this sort of track should provide (miler on the Flat).

Timeform UK SmartPlays:

Win back Top Gamble in the 13:05 at Chepstow
Win back Brandon Hill in the 15:05 at Kempton
Win back Chatez in the 15:40 at Kempton

Want to know how these tips get on? You can find today's horse racing results on the Timeform website.