WARREN Greatrex’s La Bague Au Roi, with a more than useful record over hurdles, started 5/4 favourite for the Grade 2 Ladbrokes Novices’ Chase and duly obliged. However, market rival Lostintranslation was mounting a strong challenge when blundering badly three from home and could not recover. He did well to complete but Talkischeap came past him to chase the winner home.

In a race which cut up disappointingly to just four runners, Richard Johnson made all on La Bague Au Roi and quickened the pace after the 12th. In receipt of the mares’ allowance, she looked good in front but her next race will be more informative.

A MAJOR BOOST

Venetia Williams’ Aso, absent for well over a year, showed no signs of rustiness and made virtually all the running in the Ladbrokes Handicap Chase, coming home well clear of Touch Kick in the hands of Charlie Deutsch.

This was a major tonic for the jockey, who made a mistake (caught drink driving) and spent a short time in prison not so long ago. Finding winners hard to come by, this could well prove a springboard to get his career back on track.

Aso (8/1) has been entered in some very competitive handicap chases but there have been setbacks along the way. Produced in splendid condition by the trainer, he was always travelling best and drew clear from two out. The disappointing King’s Odyssey came down at the last when a moderate third.

“It was a brilliant performance,” the jockey said. “I’ve never made the running on him before but he took me there. It’s great to be on a horse of this calibre. I’m very fortunate; I know I made a mistake but I just have to carry on from here.”