Wyck Hill scales the heights in Eider for a McManus 1-2

Wyck Hill gamely held off Smoking Aces to win the Betfred Eider Chase at Newcastle on Saturday and provide owner JP McManus with a notable one-two.

Trained by David Bridgwater, McManus bought the winner almost a year ago to the day to run in the Kempton Park Chase in which he was pulled up after suffering an injury.

There has only been one respectable run in that time, at the Punchestown Festival, forcing Bridgwater to search for some assistance in the form of a tongue-tie.

He travelled supremely well all the way for Tom Scudamore he only came off the bridle after the last, when Smoking Aces plugged on but could only get within three-quarters of a length.

Ballypatrick was third with Safran De Cotte fourth.

“That was awesome,” said Bridgwater of the 9-1 winner.

“Tom knows him so well and he’s seen out the trip well there.

“He’s been given a chance by the handicapper and the Grand National will be the aim if he gets in.

“That’s my first winner for JP and having a horse for him is like getting the Royal seal of approval.

“If he doesn’t get in the National we’ll take that, it was a big race today and it’s great to win it.

“We might look at Punchestown again but I’ll have to talk to JP and Mr (Frank) Berry (racing manager) as they have so many horses it’s difficult.”