USEFUL hurdler Non Vintage can beat the elements with victory in the Mansfield Handicap at Southwell today. His trainer Michael Chapman looks to have found an ideal opportunity for him to earn his keep on the Flat.

The five year old is very well treated at the weights as a result of failing to find his form on the level last term. He has bounced right back to his best over hurdles this winter, winning a decent race at Ascot prior to an excellent third behind Padre Mio in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle.

And he will be in the shape to take advantage of his lenient mark today, having run well for a long way in the Ladbroke Hurdle at Leopardstown just three weeks ago.

Recent winners As hover and Adaloaldo are likely to dominate betting on this mile and a half contest, in which both look handicapped right up to their best. Which means that Non Vintage has the makings of a cracking bet at decent odds.

Chapman's namesake and fellow trainer David will have high hopes of landing the New Balderton Selling Stakes with course specialist No Submission. But the 10 year old - successful 13 times at Southwell - has been below his best of late and may have to give best to recent course and distance winner Sharp Gazelle on this occasion.

If racing is possible at Folkestone, most interest will surround Francois Doumen's attempt to land the Kent Handicap Chase with Ciel de Brion. The six year old has won five times over fences in France and is clearly useful enough to warrant serious consideration even under automatic top weight.

Doumen exploited the automatic top weight loophole when Val d'Alene scored on his British debut at Lingfield last term and Ciel de Brion should follow suit.