Barbers Shop wins Future Stars Chase

Paddy Power Gold Cup runner-up Barbers Shop stepped back up to three miles with great distinction to win the Blue Square Casino Future Stars Chase.

Nicky Henderson’s charge, owned by the Queen, found only Imperial Commander too good at Cheltenham on his last start and always travelled supremely well here for Barry Geraghty.

Battlecry helped cut out the pace with Ornais but when Paul Nicholls’ runner pulled up down the back-straight he was left out on his own in front.

Barbers Shop stalked him into the straight with Abbeybraney and Roll Along not far away but when Geraghty gave him the office, the 6-4 favourite put the race to bed.

There were three and three-quarter lengths back to Abbeybraney, who has the Welsh National as a target, in second.