Paul Townend who was deputising for the injured Ruby Walsh was in the winner's enclosure this afternoon after Knocknabooly land the Beamish Stout Hurdle.

Townend who was travelling well throughout took up the lead approaching the last and kept on well on the run-in to post a two and a half length win over Maca Rince

Jackie Mullins wife of the winning trainer Willie Mullins commented: "That was amazing, he's been off the track for two and half years and to come back and win like that was brilliant."

"The trip might have been a shade too short for him. The plan all going well is to head for Punchestown."