WITCHES VENUS (6) was safely held last time out, finishing fifth at this track over 480m behind Canvas Hoffa (30.28) in an A6. Looks the one to beat on his best form. WHITTY BRIDGIE (1) jumps from the inside trap. Last start finished 4th over 480m at this track beaten 11 lengths (29.95) behind Slaneyside Ella in an A6 on December 27. Looks suited here and can measure up. AFFANE RAINBOW (5) was responsible for a modest effort most recently when sixth at this track over 480m behind Carefree Magic (30.02) in an A6. Was in the money prior to that. Worth following up. BAND OF VELVET (4) was well backed last start but ran below expectations when fourth (30.05), beaten 13 lengths.