THE Croome and West Warwickshire Hunt’s decision to move from their traditional Easter Tuesday point-to-point meeting to the preceding Saturday was bound to have its critics.

But if increased attendance is achieved for this weekend’s meeting at Ryalls Court, Upton-upon-Severn, the organisers will feel their decision has been justified.

Martin Weston is clerk of the course at this popular riverside venue, so success for Johnny Kilawee in the Members race would be reward for all his hard work.

The flashy chestnut has shown a reluctance to start in the past so he will have to be on his best behaviour to see off the challenge of Ice Bucket, who finished runner-up in last year’s contest.

Boychuk has a course victory to his credit, but trainer Anabel Murphy has an alternative conveyance in The Tother One who will find these fences easier than the ones he encountered in the 2011 Grand National.

Niver Bai’s Leigh Sinton connections will be hoping he can improve on his third place at Whitwick, while those looking for a potential winner at longer odds could side with Seven Days, who has a hurdle success to his credit.

Beths Star finally opened her account at the North Herefordshire fixture but that was a penalty kick for Rachel Hobbs’ Hanley Swan-based inmate, who will find it tougher in the Restricted.

Irish Lace and Rock and Ska looked destined for minor placings if What A Bluff meets his engagement.

The Mares Maiden is a potential minefield for punters. Anadama has failed to build on her early season form, while Promanco and Puckerupbaby both come from successful yards.

Sue Bowen’s Shantara has been placed four times in Ireland so has to be given a chance if she can continue in the same vein for her new stable.

The Mixed Open at this meeting is restricted to novice riders and could see a first success for Worcestershire-based John Smith Maxwell on Alroyal.

The opposition includes Hemington, James Pine and the probable favourite Unleash but the biggest challenge could come from another Worcestershire resident Maletton.

He finished strongly at Chaddesley a few weeks ago and was just denied in the shadows of the post but this course will play to his strengths.

The West Midland Area Club Conditions has attracted 20 entries but the most interesting horse is Irish Raptor. A consistent performer under National Hunt rules, he is now in the care of Jelly O’Brien and you would not rule out him winning in this company.

The Intermediate could turn out to be the best race on the card with All Great N Theory, Following Dreams, Iochtaran, Ocean Club, Prof De L’Isle, Quatuor Collonges and Uppertown Hawk featuring among the entries.

The two-mile five-furlong Maiden completes the card at 5.30pm. Angolan Beat and Final Nudge have form on the board, while Tire Larigot and Stella Days come from stables that know the time of day in these type of events.