Winner is toast of Shropshire

There were Shropshire smiles all over Leicester racecourse - after a National Hunt victory made in the county, writes JAMES GARRISON.

Magnetic Pole, a well-backed 2-1 favourite, strolled to an eased down victory in the extended 2m 4f Classified Chase yesterday.

The horse is owned by Shrewsbury's Derek Pugh, trained by Byton-based south Shropshire trainer Richard Lee and sponsored by county-based estate agents Samuel Wood.

"It was a magnificent day," said former owner Sarah Edwards, and representative of Pugh.

"His last run for me was when he won the Members Race at Eyton point-to-point at Easter and I sold him to Derek eight weeks ago.

"We were all there at Leicester to watch him win and it was superb."

Lee added: "I have had this race in mind for him since he joined the yard two months ago.

"He is the first horse I have trained for the owner and I might have to get him out again quickly as the handicapper is not going to be kind."

l Cholmoneley trainer Donald McCain was also celebrating yesterday after an across-the-card double at Carlisle and Leicester with Comhla Ri Coig and Double Hit respectively.