THE Duke of Beaufort point-to-point at Didmarton, one of the most popular in the region, will take place on Saturday (March, 5), writes Peter Mansell.

The Members' race will be as difficult to win as normal with Presentandcorrect attempting to follow up his success in last year’s contest.

Tim Sage’s charge missed the early part of the season but that could be a blessing in disguise as the gelding prefers firmer conditions.

Presentandcorrect likes to make the pace but that could make him vulnerable against a strong finisher like Cecile de Volanges.

Mike Hawker’s mare was a close third when unshipping her pilot at Cocklebarrow a few weeks ago, form that would be good enough to land a race such as this.

Master Sunrise has a course victory to his credit, but he suffered a bout of colic (which almost proved fatal) after last year's win so it says a lot for the horse's constitution that he is back in training.

His efforts in the Conditions race will provided connections with information about his progress. The opposition looks well matched with Dandan, Minella Friend, Minerfortyniner and The Flying Doc all closely rated.

The Novice Riders' race presents a winning opportunity for the Levinson family's Be Definite and the Andoversford-trained gelding deserves a change of luck after so many placed efforts.

Royal Riviera has been running in Open company but the drop back into Novice Riders' races could reap its rewards, while Wessex King is expected to continue Christine and Abi Banks' good run.

Duke Of Spain and Gustave Mahler both won at Barbury Racecourse recently, although the former nearly threw away his winning chance by hanging badly on the final bend.

Tom Lacey’s Herefordshire stable is renowned for winning Maiden Races before packing the victors off to the sales. Pinnacle Peter and Agamemmon both failed to complete the course at Larkhill last weekend but don’t be surprised if they make a quick reappearance in the 4-5-6 & 7 year old Maiden.

Entry is £10 per person – Under 16s go free.

The first race is at 12.30pm with pony racing commencing at 11.30am.