Joe Jo Star sprung a 16-1 surprise in the feature toteswinger Swinton Handicap Hurdle on a mixed card at Haydock.

Ferdy Murphy’s day at Ayr started on a sour note when Percutant was one of two horses to be fatally injured in the opening race, but Elzahann’s success in the Coral Backing Poppyscotland Mares’ Handicap Hurdle helped lift the stable’s spirits ahead of the Coral Scottish Grand National.

After his usual steady start to the season Ferdy Murphy is now beginning to hit form and there was plenty to like about the performance of Elzahann in the Streetlam Mares’ “National Hunt” Novices’ Hurdle at Catterick.

Owner Graham Wylie was adamant Howard Johnson’s string would return to form in time for the Cheltenham Festival after his welcome winner at Catterick.