Mount Beckham got on top in the closing stages to claim the opening Daily Mirror Maiden Hurdle at Down Royal this afternoon.

Sean Flanagan produced his mount with a well-timed run to challenge at the final flight in the two-mile contest.

The Clare Cannon-trained gelding fought it out with Laid Back Luke on the run-in and got the better of his rival in the closing stages for a half length success.

The stewards had a look after the 8/1 winner ducked right, across his rival, near the line but the result stood. 7/2 favourite Round Tower who cut out the running, faded to finish fourth.

The winner had been third on his last outing at Ayr in January.

Cannon said afterwards: "After he was second at Leopardstown Dad said to put him away. He has been very patient.

“Two and a half miles last time was too far for him. We dropped him back and the better ground helped."

Her father Geoff Cannon, from Donaghadee, Co Down, said: "I would love to see him go chasing. He jumps for fun. He's actually better going left-handed."

Cannon has four horses in training, all owned by her father.

Sean Flanagan added: "He travelled real well and jumped really well."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)