Theligny has Vaughan eyeing Aintree Grade 1

Trainers are often creatures of habit so it is no surprise Tim Vaughan is eyeing the scene of one of his career highlights for Theligny, the improving winner of the 2m4½f handicap hurdle who he hopes can graduate to Grade 1 company in the spring.

Vaughan captured the Sefton Novices' Hurdle with Saint Are in 2011 and is looking at another strike in the race with this Alan Johns-ridden five-year-old, who has now won four of his last five.

"He's progressive," said Vaughan. "The Gerry Feilden was too sharp for him last time and we've aimed at this."

Vaughan also credited winning owner David Pearn for spotting the opportunity.