EMPRESS OF HOPE shaped as though getting the hang of things when third in a 7f Southwell novice a fortnight ago and, with the promise of better to come from this lightly-raced filly now handicapping over a new trip, she gets the nod. H Key Lails has gone close on each of his last three starts and looks sure to be on the premises once again, along with Elterwater and Kessaar Power, who were first and second respectively in a C&D handicap last time.