Western takes first step on possible road back to Cheltenham

Western Ryder got the wheels back on his jumping career when grinding out a decisive win over Bank On Frankie in division one of the 2m novices' hurdle.

Those who kept the faith with last year's Champion Bumper fifth, despite his mishap when sent off the 1-6 favourite at Stratford, were rewarded when Richard Johnson's mount put the race to bed at the second last at more rewarding odds of 8-13.

Western Ryder had come to grief at just the third flight at Stratford when depositing Richard Johnson on the turf, but the combination stayed intact for a smooth success and may well try again in similar company before stepping up in class.