Blades cuts loose at Chester

Rank outsider Autumn Blades sprang a 25-1 surprise by landing the Sl Investment Management Earl Grosvenor Handicap at Chester under Franny Norton today.

Runner-up Academy Blues held a clear lead turning into the straight, but Autumn Blades was never far off the pace and started to reel him in.

The Alan Bailey-trained winner eventually wore him down to score by a head, with Suruor finishing strongly from the rear to claim third.

Norton said: "He showed real guts that last half a furlong. He put his head out for me and he has turned the corner.

"I have had a lot of luck round here, but when I had a look at the rides I had I thought I might struggle this week.

"This has been a nice little bonus."