The Briefing: All you need to start your day including going from the tracks

The cancellation of Towcester's scheduled meeting today was confirmed last month, meaning the action is that little bit lighter than usual.

Ludlow is the sole remaining jumps card, having survived an early inspection, but as usual there is above-average handicap fare on show. The novices' handicap chase (1.15) and staying handicap hurdle (1.45) are both in the 0-135 bracket.

Southwell provides the all-weather action in the afternoon, with Chelmsford taking over in the evening up to 7.55.

Meydan adds some spice to the afternoon diet, with a six-race card starting at 2.30 which includes a pair of Group 3s.

Going report

Ludlow (first race at: 12.40)
Good to soft, good in places

Southwell (12.55)
Standard

Chelmsford (4.10)
Standard

What to back

James Hill heads to Ludlow for Thursday's ten-second tip, in one of the track's feature races.

What to read

A tale of two veterans, as one is reportedly on track for his usual big day out at Sandown on Saturday, while another is off into the sunset after running at Cheltenham on Tuesday.

What to watch

Hear from Aidan Aherne, the man who bred Grade 1 winner and Savills Chase runner-up Monalee.

The best of Racing Post Sport

It's the match of the season in the Premier League tonight, as Manchester City take on Liverpool in a contest that could either ignite or effectively extinguish the title race.

It is also the regular Kapalua date on the PGA Tour calendar, with the Tournament Of Champions. Check out Steve Palmer's preview.

Final thought

The prospect of Fox Norton returning to action is a welcome one. It is unlikely that he could live with Altior at his best, but having a British-trained rival among the tier of challengers may add a more competitive edge to the champion chaser's races. Also, as a former winner of the Melling Chase who genuinely seems as comfortable at 2m4f as the minimum trip, Fox Norton may provide the acid test come Aintree.

For the freshest betting advice, based on latest going and market conditions, don't miss the Live Tipster every afternoon. Just click Raceday Live at racingpost.com or the mobile app