Lavelle hoping to have found the key to Full Irish in Tommy Whittle Chase

The heritage of the Tommy Whittle Handicap Chase (2.45) ensures it is elevated above most races in its class (Class 2) and pool size (the winner's share is just over £15,600). The race also has a reputation for bringing out those plodders with targets beyond the Welsh National, but this year the race is full of strong travellers.

Full Irish has been favourite in the lead up and he more or less pulled his way through the race moved up to around 3m at Lingfield last time. His trainer Emma Lavelle said: "He loves soft ground, he's a typical Flemensfirth in that sense, and he did it very nicely at Lingfield last time."

That was just the ninth start for the six-year-old and Lavelle added: "I wouldn't say he's been difficult to train, but he can go a bit light on you and he's perhaps been a bit slow to mature. The main problem has been figuring him out. I think we've got to the point where we know he wants soft ground and travels well, so hopefully Haydock will suit him and he can run another nice race."

Others in the race expected to travel smoothly include Catamaran Du Seuil, a seeming non-stayer over further on Betfair Chase day, and Broadway Buffalo, who won this race three years ago but has not been seen since finishing second in the Grand National Trial here in February 2016.

Vic De Touzaine (grey) looks to make amends for his disappointing run at Wincanton last timeCredit: Grossick Racing Photography

Last year's winning trainer Venetia Williams is represented again, this time by Vic De Touzaine, who went off joint-second favourite for the Badger Ales when last seen but was pulled up.

The other Haydock race to feature on ITV's coverage is the preceding Betfred Supports Jack Berry House Handicap Hurdle at 2.10. Limited Reserve, an impressive eight-length winner on Betfair Chase day, returns raised just 8lb for that success and is a warm order to follow up under James Bowen for trainer Christian Williams.

Though his claims stand out, the race is fairly competitive despite the relatively small field of five. Most notably, Kk Lexion and Zalvados have both made the frame in Cheltenham handicap hurdles this winter.

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