Big spring targets for Irish Prophecy after victory in front of ITV cameras

The combination of trainer Emma Lavelle and jockey Ben Jones teamed up for a memorable success in front of the ITV cameras with De Rasher Counter in the Ladbrokes Trophy last year and they were the leading lights on Taunton's televised card after Irish Prophecy's impressive victory in the 2m7f handicap chase.

The seven-year-old had enjoyed a fine early-season campaign and was only narrowly touched off by Badger Beers Silver Trophy winner El Presente at Exeter last time out. However, he took another step forward with a career-best effort under 3lb claimer Jones to leave connections dreaming of potential big-race glory towards the end of the season.

"This horse threatened to be a good horse and then things didn't pan out for him," Lavelle said. "The form of his race at Exeter looked very good, especially as how it worked out, and he was very well handicapped for this. He's shown that he is improving as well. He's had a really good season.