WETHERBY stage a vintage renewal of the Charlie Hall Chase, with a whole host of confirmed National Hunt stars taking their respective places in the line-up for the £70,000 showpiece, writes Colin Woods.

This year's Cheltenham Gold Cup runner-up, Sir Rembrandt, possesses the highest BHB rating in the race, so clearly has an obvious chance after giving the three-time champion, Best Mate, a massive fright by getting to within a half-length of the nation's most popular steeplechaser in March.

With the likes of Scottish National hero Grey Abbey, Lord Sam, who has only been beaten once in his career, plus Sue Smith's high-class duo Royal Emperor and Artic Jack, as well as the hard-as-iron grey, Turgeonev, it would be folly to recommend a really big bet on Sir Rembrandt.

But having mentioned all the runners in the classy field, the evidence of the form book does suggest that provided trainer Robert Alner has not left the top-notch gelding short of work, then his stable talisman should by rights go back to Dorset with the money.

The other six races all boast good horses vying for excellent prize-money. The appearance of the Aintree Grand National winner Amberleigh House is an extra bonus for the anticipated huge crowd, however he'll surely not be pacey enough to cope with Mister McGoldrick (4.00), a successful at the corresponding fixture 12 months ago.

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