Beverley best bet: More to come from Billyb after promising season debut

15:15 Beverley:  bet365 Handicap  (7 furlongs 96 yards)

The early market was headed by Tropez Power, but he has won only one of 17 attempts on turf and that was back in July 2021, and there appears to be better value elsewhere.

Our first pick had No Nay Nicki leading the challenge at a good price, but unfortunately Richard Fahey’s mare has been withdrawn, so we’re equally happy with our next-best selection, Billyb, who has since received plenty of backing to emerge as the new favourite.

Suggested bet: Billyb in the 15:15 at Beverley

The five-year-old enjoyed an encouraging debut for his new trainer, Craig Lidster, at York last a fortnight ago, when he ran fifth of 18 in a 0-85 over seven furlongs on good-to-soft ground, a good effort given that his two turf wins came on good-to-firm and good.

Rated 88 at this time last year, he is dangerously well-handicapped off 76 if he can build on that recent return to action, and he should do because it was his first run for 273 days and this ground will suit him better.

He is eased a pound from his last appearance and will start off an 11-pound lower mark than this time last year, so if jockey Sam James can bring the best out of him on their first ride together, the gelding should be right in the mix in the final stages.

• Tips and analysis provided by Steve Jones who runs CD Systems Daily Bargain on Tipstrr

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