PICKS FROM THE PADDOCK

Andrew Ayres was impressed by one of Olly Murphy’s hurdlers who looks bound for Aintree

ASCOT January 18 (heavy)
2m handicap hurdle (Class 1)
RED-HOT FORM
THOMAS DARBY (Olly Murphy) looked a million dollars and put up a high-class performance to defy top weight. He’s still raw but has stacks of ability and, according to connections, will be even more effective on good ground this spring. The Grade 1 hurdle (2m4f) at Aintree’s Grand National Meeting is his target, so expect a bold show there.
PLUMPTON January 20 (soft, heavy in places...