THE Dessie Hughes-trained Quiet Word proved the equine star of last night’s action in sun-drenched Ballinrobe, the Bryan Cooper-ridden gelding scoring a smooth success over Lend A Hand Son in the Irish Stallion Farms Novice Hurdle.

IN COMPLIANCE, having his first run since December of 2007, made a stunning return in the Thurles Chase at Thurles yesterday.

Legendary punter JP McManus strengthened his Cheltenham Festival squad as top-class bumper prospect Sweeps Hill opened his account in the Kilternan INH Flat Race at Leopardstown.