Mister Policeman got favourite backers and Willie Mullins supporters off to a winning start in the Concept Colours Rated Novice Chase at Punchestown. Irish Blaze attempted to make all for Carl Millar over the minimum trip, but was closed up upon by Mister Policeman three out.

The 1/2 favourite got on terms at the next and travelled well under Paul Townend as he moved to the front entering the straight.

He began to assert before the last and a flying leap there saw him coast in by an six lengths. Arctic Bresil (10/3) came through for second without ever threatening the winner.

Mister Policeman is now three from four (a hurdle and two chases) and finished third in a novice chase at Naas last month.

Mullins said: “He’s still learning to jump and he’ll probably be better going out in trip at some stage, but this race fitted nicely into his schedule. It will leave him nicely set up for the spring.

“I’d imagine he’ll stay at home and there are plenty of good races to be won. He could go for a novice handicap.”

Additional reporting by Alan Magee