'There must be easier ways to be skint!' - Jo Davis off to a festive flyer with first winner of the season

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A new 'Festive Fiver' fixture proved a hit with the public and also with trainers including Jo Davis, whose Benvoy made a timely return to form in the 2m handicap hurdle.

There were long queues at the food outlets and bars and also at some bookmakers after the 14-1 chance landed each-way support from 22-1 in the morning.

Davis's team, who are based near Swindon, suffered with a virus in October and are only just coming out of it, and Benvoy was her first winner of the season.

She said: "Thank heavens for that as it's been average recently and I was thinking this morning that there must be easier ways to be skint! He takes the proverbial this horse, but we always knew he had plenty of ability."

The new £5 fixture was well supported by trainers and Huntingdon assistant clerk of the course Katie Margarson said: "This is our Christmas fixture now in place of Boxing Day, which moved to Aintree a few years ago."

Cobden winner

Harry Cobden had just one ride on the card and signed off with a winner before Christmas when Watamu overcame the odds-on Khrisma in the opening 2m mares' novice hurdle.

The daughter of Crystal Ocean had come unstuck in Listed company on her previous start but trainer Emma Lavelle nominated a black type target in the new year for her short-head winner. 

James Best and Zacony Rebel clear the ditch at HuntingdonCredit: Getty Images

She said: "Watamu was a bit keen at Newbury last time but settled better today and the Grade 2 EBF Mares' Handicap Final back there in March might be a suitable target."

Patient approach 

The Jonjo and AJ O'Neill revival continued when Impatient came from off the pace to land the 2m7½f handicap chase.

The grey was returning from a 43-day layoff after the yard recently shut down for a few weeks, but you would not have known it judging by the way he finished.

Jockeys pass the food trucks on their way to the parade ring at HuntingdonCredit: Getty Images

Jockey Jonjo O'Neill Jr said: "This fellow didn't like the ground last time but had been flying at home and it's good to see the string in such good form again. There are many to run, including lots of unraced ones, so there is plenty to look forward to."

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