Circus Star looks a short-priced favourite worth opposing in the Hughes Novices' Chase at Ludlow today, and the one to take him on with is Ferrufino.

Whereas Circus Star has on occasions appeared to hold fire under pressure and has also been turned over more than once at a short price, Ferrufino is as genuine as they come and won his chasing debut over the course and distance last month, scoring by seven lengths from Charming Girl.

At 10 years of age there is no doubt that Ferrufino is a late recruit to life over the larger obstacles but his progressive form over the past two seasons for Paul Rich suggests that he might even still be improving.

If jumping the last within hailing distance of his rivals, Ferrufino's power-packed finish could be enough to see him land the spoils at a decent price.

Fortria Rosie Dawn is given one last chance to redeem herself having capitulated at the last flight when 15 lengths clear at Wincanton last week. Venetia Williams' mare has tested the patience of her connections having on occasions threatened to score without managing to get her head in front. But she remains exceptionally well-weighted and can overcome her jumping problems to land the Novices' Handicap Chase.

Go with Cedar Square to recoup recent losses in the Tote Novices' Handicap Chase at Taunton. Formerly a useful point-to-pointer, the seven-year-old took well to regulation fences last season with wins in hunter chases at Cheltenham and Aintree.

Made favourite on his reappearance at Newbury at the end of last month, Cedar Square was always vying for the lead and had just taken over when unseating Carl Llewellyn at the last leaving the race to Moor Lane. It would have been a close call but Cedar Square can be counted an unlucky loser. Compensation awaits today.