Superb Swinton shows the jumps is back - and there's no Willie Mullins to beat this time on a marvellous mixed Merseyside card

Dare you believe it, but the jumps is back. It's like it's never been away and just two weeks after Willie Mullins was crowned Britain's champion trainer again and seven days after Punchestown, the first big race of the new season is here.

The Pertemps Network Swinton Handicap Hurdle (1.35) may feel more like a (welcome) hangover from last campaign, but no trainers need be worried about Mullins hoovering up its prize-money. Thankfully, in a week plagued by dismal jumps field sizes, a maximum 17 horses are set to go to post too.

Dan Skelton was the wounded party in Mullins' charge to another championship, but he could fire an early title warning shot with She's A Saint.