Forpadydeplasterer has been handed top weight of 11st 12lb in the John Smith's Topham Chase over two miles five and a half furlongs of the famous course on Friday week.

He will also be given an entry in the John Smith's Melling Chase over two and a half miles on the Mildmay course the same day.

Forpadydeplasterer, sixth to Riverside Theatre in the Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham last month, has not tasted success since the Arkle Trophy at the 2009 Festival.

However, he has run many creditable races since then, including when second in the Melling Chase behind Albertas Run two years ago.

"We've not made up our minds yet which race to go for yet," said County Kerry trainer Tom Cooper.

"It will be the Topham or the Melling Chase. He's been going great since Cheltenham.

"He'd be the class act in the Topham if he turned up."

Tartak is next in the weights on 11st 11lb behind Forpadydeplasterer while the Arthur Moore-trained Linnel, runner-up in the Grand Sefton Chase over the big fences in December, heads the betting with Ladbrokes at 10-1.

John Smith's Topham Handicap Chase, Ladbrokes bet: 10-1 Linnel, 12-1 Carrickboy, 14-1 Chance Du Roy, In Compliance, Triangular, Your Busy, 16-1 Always Waining, Apt Approach, Billie Magern, Marufo, 20-1 bar.