The North Yorkshire yard of Joel Parkinson and Sue Smith are slow burners on the National Hunt scene, traditionally coming to life only at the turn of the year. They have followed that pattern this season, hitting form around Christmas with big winners at Market Rasen with O’Connell Street and at Uttoxeter with Tara Hills.

Another winner was The Big Braec, who landed the 3m conditional jockeys’ handicap hurdle under 7lb claimer Jack Power for trainer-owner Sue Smith.

Given a break to freshen up, The Big Braec—though already an 8-year-old—looks set to rise through the grades. Sue Smith is renowned for her patience, and the horse returns to the same course and distance on Thursday off a mark of 90, following his last win off 87. With rain forecast, conditions are likely to replicate those of his previous success.

The stable also had a winner and a second place with two gambles at Catterick on Wednesday, and I expect The Big Braec to be well supported here. This looks a race of more quantity than quality, with only the Skelton-trained Edge of Substance posing a serious threat.

1pt win bet: The Big Braec, 15.15 Wetherby.