Akarem on target for Plate

Karl Burke is expecting a big run from Akarem in the John Smith’s Northumberland Plate at Newcastle on Saturday.

The North Yorkshire trainer is delighted the seven-year-old is guaranteed a place in the maximum 20-runner field.

After a spell hurdling in the winter, Burke is hoping he can recapture the form which saw him win two Listed races back in 2006.

“He’s a definite runner, baring accidents,” said Burke.

“I only put him in a race at Windsor also on Saturday just in case he got balloted out of the Plate. Thankfully he gets in and he’s in great form. He hasn’t won over two miles but he certainly gets the trip and I’m hoping for a big run.”

Akarem can be backed at 40-1 for the two-mile Heritage Handicap.