The big race of the weekend is the Northumberland Plate, often referred to as the ‘Pitmen’s Derby’ in that in it’s early years it gave locals the chance to have a rare holiday.

The race is one of the richest two-mile handicap races in the world and more than a £100,000 will go to the winner.

The race often throws up a big priced winner as many trainers and owners plan their season round the valuable handicap.

It’s worth noting that only one favourite has won the race in the last 10 years, that being Juniper Girl for Michael Bell in 2007.

Looking at the current prices the current favourite is Deauville Flyer (5/1) of the Tim Easterby yard.

He comes into the race on a hat-trick after winning his last two races, both at York.

He’s a strong travelling type who gets in on a featherweight and despite going up five pounds for his last win looks to be improving.

It’s definitely worth looking through the card.

One thing I look for in these marathon races is horses with form over the distance and preferably those with winning form.

And Charlie Swan has entered two horses with wins over the distance, Rajik and Zaralabad.

It’s always worth noting the Irish raiders in big handicaps, especially the ones worth a few bob as they are shrewd players when they come over.

Tony Martin trained Arc Bleu who won the race two years ago. That cost me a few quid let me tell you. Anyhow, Rajik caught my eye last at Royal Ascot when running over a further half mile. I think the drop in trip will suit and at 16/1 I wouldn’t put anyone off an each-way punt.

One horse that interests me, though, is Merchant of Dubai.

I say I look for horses that have won over the distance and he hasn’t. However he has dead heated over 1m7f, which is good enough for me. If the race is run steadily and it turns into a sprint finish he could be the one to be on at 14/1.

I note in the first race at Newcastle, the Chipchase Stakes, that Knot In Wood makes a quick appearance after last week’s Wokingham where he finished fourth at 66/1. That was a solid run and, if he’s in the same heart, he will take some beating.

Channel 4 also have their cameras at Newmarket where their feature race is the Listed Fred Archer Stakes.

It’s a small field but one of quality. I can see it being a very tactical affair which could play into the hands of Whispering Gallery.

Another good race at Newmarket is the 3.20 where I like the chances of Doncaster Rover who chased home Main Aim at Haydock last time out. That was a solid effort and I think he may well go well again.