'It's going to be exciting' - Richards helps Hughes regain title-race lead

Brian Hughes regained the lead in his epic jockeys' title duel with Harry Skelton following a double on Wetlands and Storm Nelson.

Skelton took over at the head of affairs with victory on Vision Du Puy at Haydock, but Hughes answered straight back as Wetlands racked up his hat-trick in the 2m3½f novice hurdle.

On a day when Hughes had plenty more bullets to fire, the reigning champion took advantage of his six rides to edge back in front on Storm Nelson, who also landed his third race in a row in the 3m1f handicap hurdle.

Skelton went to Haydock for three rides, but ended up having just one after two of his mounts were declared non-runners.

Hughes leads Skelton by one (132-131) with three weeks to go and trainer Nicky Richards, who is one of his main supporters, believes it is going to be a fascinating climax.

"They're two very good jockeys going head-to-head and it's putting an exciting angle to the end of the season," he said.

Wetlands lands his hat-trick in the 2m3½f novice hurdle under Brian HughesCredit: John Grossick (racingpost.com/photos)

"It's nice to help the northern man and we'll try to do our best, but I'm sure Brian will take every opportunity that comes his way."

On the promising Trevor Hemmings-owned Wetlands, Richards added: "He's not stopped progressing all winter and it was a smooth performance.

"He's a bit of a heavy boy – a typical Mr Hemmings' horse – and he wouldn't run on ground any livelier than that. He might run again but whatever happens he'll get schooled before his summer break and is very much a horse to look forward to next season."

13th time lucky

Peter Kavanagh enjoyed a landmark first success on Donladd in the 2m1f conditional jockeys' handicap hurdle.

Kavanagh, who has ridden over jumps and on the Flat in Ireland, was having his 13th ride since moving from Colin Bowe to winning trainer Donald McCain in Cheshire.

Results, replays and analysis

Watch live races through the Racing Post. Log in to your bookmaker account and look on the racecards for eligible races. Click the red 'Watch live now' icon and they're off! Find out how here