Barton is set to make his comeback after 19 months on the sidelines in the Pertemps `Fighting Fifth` Hurdle at Newcastle on Saturday.
The seven-year-old gelding, owned by Newcastle supremo Stan Clarke, won all seven of his starts over timber in the 1998/99 season.
His victories included the Royal & SunAlliance Hurdle at Cheltenham, but he missed all of last term with a tendon injury.
Trainer Tim Easterby said today: 'He`s in good form and he runs all being well.
'He`s been back in training for long enough and he`s fit enough.'
Tony Dobbin comes in for the ride following the retirement of Barton`s regular partner Lorcan Wyer.
There are nine entries for the #37,000 event including three from Martin Pipe`s stable - Mr Cool, Seebald and The French Furze - and Norwegian raider Rambo Flyer.
Entries: Barton, Bring Sweets, Crystal Gift, Master Beveled, Mr Cool, Musardo, Rambo Flyer, Seebald, The French Furze. (9)
