Brian Hughes edges ahead of Harry Skelton in jockeys' title race with a treble

Brian Hughes's decision to miss Aintree for Sedgefield paid off as he enjoyed a treble on the day, putting him three clear of Harry Skelton in the jump jockeys' championship.

Hughes partnered the well-fancied Bellaney Gem to win the 2m4f novice hurdle before Agent Valdez was unchallenged from the front to win the mares' handicap chase for Fergal O'Brien.

Luck was on his side in the final leg, with Placedela Concorde coming down at the last to allow Getaway Jewel to coast home.

The wins raises Hughes's tally to 137, with Skelton on 134, but both riders will be in action at Aintree on Saturday with Hughes to ride Lake View Lad in the Randox Grand National.

After winning the feature on Agent Valdez, Hughes said: "She's fit and jumps well so I wanted to make sure it was even. I don't think I went overly quick, that's why I was keen to press her on at the top of the hill. I didn't want it to turn into a dash down the hill, she's a big galloping mare."

Gameface off the mark

Gameface got within half a length of Monkfish in an Irish point-to-point three years ago and finally broke his duck off a mark of 80 in the 3m3f handicap hurdle for Ben Haslam and Richie McLernon.

Results, replays and analysis

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