CLASS APART

Altior’s build-up has been positive — and his stable is in a rich vein of form with eight wins from the last 17 runners.

The way the race might pan out could also help Altior. Both Un De Sceaux and Saint Calvados force the pace, which should enable Altior to sit in and wait to pounce.

The Becher Chase looks a cracking contest with three previous winners — Blaklion, Highland Lodge and Vieux Lion Rouge — in the line-up. But improving Irish raider

CROSSHUE BOY (Aintree, nap, 1.30) is a big player after a warm-up over hurdles.