Court Of Appeal made the breakthrough on his sixth start, as he claimed the first divide of the Awards & Gifts Handicap.

Trained in Co Down by Noel Hynds, the four-year-old finished third on his most recent start at Dundalk last month but proved easy-to-back today, going off at 22/1 from early shows of 12/1.

Settled behind the leaders by Conor Hoban, the son of Golden Horn was pushed along in fifth entering the straight, coming with his challenge on the outer from the furlong pole.

In front inside the final 50 yards, the bay victor then had to hold off the late surge of Chacha Dancer (22/1), with half a length separating the pair at the line.

Wayne Lordan was aboard the runner-up for rookie trainer Chris Timmons, while Kaaranah who was returned the 3/1 favourite, was just a head back in third. Estoppel (28/1) completed the places in this big field handicap, as she finished another two-and-a-quarter lengths back in fourth.

Hynds, who also owns the winner, said: "He was a little unlucky in running at Dundalk the last day. We were happy with that run and he's improved from it.

"It was a more competitive race today but he's stepped up and should be a nice fun horse at that level.

"My wife, Fiona, bought him last autumn out of Newmarket so we'll let her pick another one or two!"

STEWARDS REPORT

Melanie Horsman, rider of Patchouli (GB) trained by S.M.Duffy, reported to the Clerk of Scales that her mount was hampered turning in.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee