Lago di Varano gets the vote off bottom-weight for the Southmead Rated Stakes at Newbury today. None too consistent last term, the six-year-old nevertheless turned some decent performances and looks well-weighted on the pick of his form.

A horse who has run well at this time of the season before, Richard Whitaker's charge looked in great heart when keeping on well in the closing stages to be third to Westcourt Magic at Newcastle last month.

There must be every chance that he can run up to that standard again here, having proven himself on soft ground in the past.

Regular partner Dean McKeown is booked and should his rivals cut each other's throats by battling for the lead in the quagmire-like conditions, Lago di Varano can steam home.

Crazee Mental is the logical choice in the £30,000 added Dubai Duty Free Fred Darling Stakes.

Derek Haydn Jones's filly stamped herself as a genuine 1,000 Guineas prospect last season by finishing runner-up in three Group races, her best run coming on her final start when two and a half lengths second to Embassy in the Cheveley Park Stakes at Newmarket.

This does not look a vintage contest by Group Three standards and Crazee Mental should assert.

Mud-loving Sweetness Herself can outclass the opposition in the Levy Board Seventh Race Handicap.

Mick Ryan's mare has proved a real money-spinner and rounded off last season by winning at Doncaster followed by victory in a Listed race at Maisons-Laffitte.

She should be spot-on after two runs this year, the latest when returning to Maisons-Laffitte to finish a creditable fourth in another Listed contest.

Justin Mac has always been held in high regard by trainer Jimmy FitzGerald and should be backed now that stable are back in form. He can land the Kent Electrical Novices' Hurdle at Ayr.

Lake Kariba was caught out by a couple of jumping mistakes at Aintree two weeks ago but was staying on well enough at the finish and looks good enough to take the Grandhome Children Novices' Chase.