Ravenswood, a smart stayer on the Flat, can make a successful transition to hurdling at Taunton tomorrow.

Trained by Martin Pipe, whose runners command very special respect at his local West-Country tracks, the four-year-old makes his debut in the Tufters Maiden Hurdle.

Ravenswood has the size and scope to make the grade in his new role and, sure to have been throroughly schooled by the champion trainer, is expected to take all the beating. Tony McCoy will be in the hot seat.

Pipe and McCoy have fancied runners throughout the afternoon and can also hit the target with Running Times (1.10), Fayraway Rhythm (1.40) and Jolly Red (4.10).

Ballybentragh makes plenty of appeal in the Exmoor Emperor Champion Hound Handicap Chase.

Previously trained by Oliver Sherwood, for whom he won a novices' handicap chase at Fontwell 13 months ago, Ballybentragh is now under the care of Epsom-based Simon Dow.

Creditable recent runs at Towcester and Aintree have left the distinct impression that Ballybentragh is on the threshold of returning to the winning trail. He can prove the point by scoring here under Dean Gallagher and is awarded the Nap vote.

At Ludlow, Swindle catches the eye in the EBF 'National Hunt' Novices' Hurdle (Qualifier).

Charlie Egerton's mare, a bumper winner at Fontwell, shaped with promise on her hurdling debut at Wincanton and can be expected to improve with that experience. With Norman Williamson on board, Swindle should go well.

The consistent Greenback (1.00) is overdue a winning turn, while the promising Evolution Lad (4.00) can make it two out of two in the bumper for Nigel Twiston-Davies and Tom Scudamore.

Tomorrow's tips

Taunton: 1.10 Running Times, 1.40 Fayraway Rhythm, 2.10 County Flyer, 2.40 Ravenswood, 3.10 Lysandros, 3.40 Ballybentragh (Nap), 4.10 Jolly Red.

Ludlow: 1.00 Greenback, 1.30 Ben Cohan, 2.00 Swindle, 2.30 Hit Royal, 3.00 Quainton Hills, 3.30 Jack Dawson, 4.00 Evolution Lad.

Updated: 11:46 Wednesday, November 14, 2001