Bruisers Bullet, fastest in recent trials where so many Astute Gold Cup hopefuls were in action, was the surprise omission from the opening round of the Geoff Hill sponsored event at Towcester on Saturday. Mark Wallis’ runner has the RPGTV Scottish Derby as his principle target.

It is, nevertheless a top top class entry featuring the 2017 Star Sports English Derby winner Astute Missile, Shoot Out winner Dorotas Wildcat, Anglo Irish Invitation winner Bubbly Bluebird and Greyhound of the Year King Elvis to name but four. . . .