Not a strong handicap hurdle, with doubts over the current form of several contenders, but a good pace, which suited SUPREME LEISURE, who ideally probably needs further than this trip. The testing ground was very much in his favour, though, as was a drop in the handicap, and he left two modest efforts behind him, leading four out, soon clear and holding on well. He will go back up in the weights now but is well worth keeping in mind if stepped back up in trip, particularly if the ground remains in his favour.

Imtihan was outpaced going to three out, but stayed on again to take second on the run-in. This was a better effort on his first run for Sue Smith, who is renowned for improving horses inherited from elsewhere, and he could well take advantage of a lowly handicap mark before much longer.

Stormy Lord deserves a little credit as he seta strong pace for the conditions, though his less-than-fluent jumping betrayed the fact that he was chasing last season.

Culcabock looked to be anchored by a 15lb rise for his Kelso victory.

Jockey Richie McGrath reported that Farne Isle had a breathing problem.

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