Greatrex relieved as mare nips in to steal chase after last-fence drama

The shortest day of the year turned into the longest for some as lengthy delays on train services from London Paddington to the West Country impacted on many attempting to get to the track, including part-owner Will Smith, who arrived just in time to see his charge The Nipper oblige in the mares' chase.

The 4-1 chance was going like an express train herself at the head of affairs from flagfall with some spectacular leaps, but the game looked to be up for jockey Richard Johnson when favourite Casablanca Mix went on after the third-last.

Unfortunately, the new leader capsized at the last with the race in the bag and gifted the 2m1½f contest to The Nipper, who had a late scare when second favourite Shaama Grise made a flourish on the run-in.