Local trainer Brian Hamilton stepped Big Kern up in trip in the two mile seven maiden hurdle and he scored a facile success.

The six-year-old gelding tracked the leader Better Back Bob before two out and soon led after the last before easing away to score by a length with Paul Townend motionless in the saddle.

The 6/4 shot beat Better Back Bob (7/1) into second. Tom’s Article, the 11/8 favourite, was pulled up when behind three out.

“He was taken out of his comfort zone the last day and the two mile seven suited him better though he probably wants better ground,” Brian Hamilton said.

“We’ll see what kind of mark the handicapper gives him and if he’s good enough to win a novice. Two miles seven is as far as he wants.

“We’ll keep him rattling through the summer until the ground goes soft. He jumps savagely well and will make a good chaser.”

This was Big Kern’s second win at Downpatrick, having won his bumper at the northern venue in June. He was second in a two mile maiden hurdle here last month.