Skelton magic pays instant dividend with Too Many Diamonds

Dan Skelton does not get his hands on many horses rated just 72, and when he does he can be expected to take full advantage, so Too Many Diamonds' easy 13-length win in the 2m handicap hurdle may turn out to be the first in a sequence.

Skelton claimed the six-year-old for £6,000 out of a Taunton seller early in April and had clearly worked a bit of magic on him since, for he was a 41-race maiden going into the race and yet was sent off an even money favourite.

Jockey David England, who has been part of the Skelton set-up for two or three years but still makes the most of any riding opportunities, said: "Dan will be claiming a lot of these horses for summer jumping as he wants to get winners on the board.