Nick Williams has another bright young prospect in Pistolet Noir, who stayed on best of all in the Prestbury Juvenile Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham.

An inexperienced French-bred running against mostly more worldly-wise opponents, the 7-2 shot travelled like a dream for Daryl Jacob just off the 5-4 favourite Barizan.

Pistolet Noir was in charge by the final flight and although he drifted across the track, he had nine lengths in hand by the line.

Williams was not present but his wife Jane said:

“It was only his second run – he ran very green at Chepstow but he came on for it. It was tough to take on Flat-bred horses but because he’s jumps bred, he went on the ground. He’s only tiny but he has a hell of a stride on him.”

Boylesports and William Hill were biggest about his Triumph Hurdle price, offering 25-1.

Dunguib..

This afternoon’s meeting at Punchestown has been given the go-ahead.

Course officials delivered the pleasing news following an 8am inspection.

Although the track was hit by 12 millimetres of overnight rain, the ground remains heavy.

Cliff Noone, Irish Turf Club press officer, reported: “It’s testing ground, but they have not had as much rain as was expected.”

Punchestown are also due to be in action on Sunday. Fenton said:

“That was grand. He wasn’t really concentrating over the first two and he learned more today. He jumped with enthusiasm. We’ll find out more two weeks tomorrow in the Royal Bond. The ground out there was loose rather than tacky which was okay. Roll on Fairyhouse.”