JUMPS fans continue to have their appetites whetted by the odd good race and the appearance of the odd good and/or promising performer. Things will be stepping up a gear shortly.

Chepstow staged the Grade 2 Persian War Novices’ Hurdle last Friday and it was won by one who may well take high rank in that division this winter in Thyme Hill, last seen finishing third to Envoi Allen in the Champion Bumper at Cheltenham.