UPAVON can make a perfect start for new trainer Tony Carroll in the Betway Handicap at Wolverhampton.

The eight-year-old is a veteran of some 55 races now so, while he probably holds few secrets from the handicapper, a fresh environment might be just the thing to reinvigorate him.

An admirable performer for David Elsworth and then Stuart Williams, Upavon has a total of 11 wins to his credit which is not a bad strike rate at all, with his most recent success coming at Brighton back in August.

He has failed to add to that in eight subsequent outings but his neck second to Tropics last time was a decent effort, although he just fell short on the run for home.

The handicapper has seen fit to nudge him up 2lb for that run but he remains a good way short of his highest mark, which might leave Carroll a little something to work with.

Adam Kirby is booked to take the reins on today's nap selection.

SCRUTINY was a shock 66-1 winner of an amateur riders' event on his most recent outing and, while no world beater, he could just follow up in the sunbets.co.uk Handicap under Jamie Spencer.

He seemingly appreciated both the switch away from Southwell, where he had disappointed on two previous runs, and the application of cheekpieces as he prevailed by just a neck over an extended mile.

A 3lb rise perhaps seems a bit harsh but he is still some way below the mark of 70 off which he was triumphant a few years ago.

MRS BURBIDGE is a versatile performer, proving pretty capable over fences, hurdles and on the level, and she is one to follow in the Betway Live Casino Handicap.

A winner over hurdles back in September, she finished second in a chase in October before returning on the all weather at Lingfield earlier this month.

She finished strongly that day to be beaten just under a length and remains well treated on a mark of 50, with Luke Morris in the saddle.

KING KEVIN was another to hit the bar last time but he can redeem himself in the Betway Casino Handicap with Spencer on board.

He has paid for his consistency with a steep rise in the ratings, starting here off a 27lb higher mark than he won off back in November. But as he has added three further wins and a slew of places, it is hardly surprising.

GORSE was beaten a neck at Newcastle last time but can right that wrong in the 32Redsport.com Handicap back at Gosforth Park's evening meeting.

Returning after a 72-day break, he just fell short for Ann Duffield but at least signalled his intent in running such a fine race. He can score a first career success here.

KEIR HARDIE makes a belated debut in the opening Betway Novice Stakes but should not be ruled out for George Scott.

Initially with Richard Hannon, Keir Hardie is related to a Listed winner and could well be up to winning a moderate event like this at the first time of asking.

Today's scheduled meetings at Market Rasen, Musselburgh and Wincanton were all abandoned due to the weather.

SELECTIONS

Newcastle: 5.15 Keir Hardie, 5.45 Kings Full, 6.15 Hadley, 6.45 Urban Spirit, 7.15 Gorse, 7.45 Fintry Flyer.

Wolverhampton: 2.15 Smart Mover, 2.45 Scrutiny, 3.20 King Kevin, 3.50 Mrs Burbidge, 4.25 UPAVON (NAP), 4.55 Dubai Acclaim.

Double: Upavon and Scrutiny.