'The cloud seems to be lifting' - Despereaux delivers for Jane Williams

Saturday: Huntingdon

Jane Williams believes she has got to bottom of some issues with her string after Despereaux's win in the 2m maiden hurdle made it a second success in as many days for the Devon trainer.

Despereaux had run out when in contention approaching the last hurdle on his debut at Ffos Las last month, but he kept on well under David Noonan to score this time around.

"That was very frustrating," said Williams of the three-year-old's mishap. "I brought him today because I've got another runner here [Jaminska] and it just sort of made sense.

"I know he was getting weight, but he's still taking on older horses. He's obviously a nice horse with a big future because he probably wants further and softer ground so we're very pleased with him.

Williams, who also struck with Saint Segal on Chepstow on Friday, added: "The yard's been under a cloud and it seems to be lifting at long last. The horses had something not right with them and, with everything else going on, I didn't spot it quick enough.

"A couple of winners gives all the owners, staff and us encouragement. I think we know what the problem was, we're ironing it out and they're starting to win again so that's really good."

Williams' son and jockey Chester has only recently returned home from intensive care after a schooling accident in September, with Noonan proving an admirable deputy. He also finished second on the yard's Jaminska in the bumper which was won by the Alan King-trained Dancing In Brazil.

Williams said: "I'm absolutely thrilled with David. In what is a very difficult situation he's been incredibly positive and helpful."

Double for Noonan

Noonan completed a double when steering David Pipe's Panic Attack to a winning start over fences in the 2m4f mares' novice chase.

A Listed winner over hurdles at Cheltenham, Panic Attack was introduced at 40-1 by Betfair for the Mares' Chase at the festival in March.

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