Rainbow heads intriguing Melling entries

Formlines from several races at the Cheltenham Festival could meet in the John Smith’s Melling Chase at Aintree on Friday.

Queen Mother Champion Chase winner Finian’s Rainbow, Ryanair runner-up Albertas Run and Arkle second Cue Card all hold entries in the Grade One.

Throw in Medermit, Poquelin and Wishfull Thinking and a cracking race is in prospect.

The John Smith’s Mildmay Novices’ Chase has attracted the Paul Nicholls-trained Silviniaco Conti and Join Together, as well as Jewson runner-up Champion Court.

Emma Lavelle’s Penny Max and Pam Sly’s Helpston are also engaged.

The Grade One Sefton Novices’ Hurdle sees 29 entries including Fingal Bay, Cotton Mill, Knock A Hand and Tap Night.

Friday’s race over the big National fences is the John Smith’s Topham Chase with dual winner Always Waining going for the hat-trick.

The Tangle Teaser Top Novices’ Hurdle could see Darlan out again with Hinterland and Dodging Bullets others to note.