'I couldn't believe it was on!' - Pauling praises Southwell efforts after winner

Sunday: Southwell

Ben Pauling celebrated a winner on the card and quickly praised the efforts of Southwell officials after they worked hard to battle the frost in order for racing to go ahead.

The meetings at Newcastle and Carlisle fell victim to the weather in Britain, while Punchestown's fixture in Ireland was also abandoned.

Pauling, who saw Samazul land the 2m bumper under Kielan Woods, was grateful that racing went ahead after having major doubts on Sunday morning.

"I couldn't believe it was on!" he said. "When I left this morning, I thought it was completely pointless.

"It is really great to see racing on, Southwell have done an amazing job and I'm thrilled for them because it's nice to get it going and everything has worked well."

Samazul finished three lengths clear of Champetre and Pauling said: "He's always been a horse who we've loved. He’s one of the most beautiful models of a horse I've ever trained."

It has been a memorable few days for jockey Woods, who celebrated the birth of his first child on Saturday morning with wife Christy.

Pauling added: "It's amazing and it's always a huge relief when they come out safe and sound. I'm thrilled for him and Christy, and I wish them all the best."

The trainer completed a double when Norley won the 2m4½f handicap hurdle under Beau Morgan.

Season best

Sam England is enjoying her best season as a trainer and recorded a 20th jumps winner when The Trader claimed the 2m maiden hurdle.

The six-year-old, who was making only his fourth start over hurdles having run predominantly on the Flat, scored at 14-1 and edged out odds-on favourite Spring Note.

Results, replays and analysis

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