Fruit Blossom brought up a treble for Gordon Elliot and a double for Danny Gilligan with a staying-on performance in the mares' handicap hurdle at Downpatrick.

The 13/2 shot kept on after the penultimate flight and improved into second, in her pursuit of The Grey Monty before the last.

She got on terms with the leader approaching the final 100 yards and soon led before keeping on best by half a length.

The Grey Monty had to settle for the runner-up prize at 6/1.

Assistant trainer Lisa O'Neill said: "She was tough and I thought Danny gave her a lovely ride.

"She was maybe travelling on and off the bridle a little bit, but he nipped around the inside and he timed his challenge well.

"She handles this track and stays really well, they are her assets. She was carrying top-weight but I think she definitely benefitted from the 5lb (Gilligan's claim) taken off."

Gilligan also steered Gaye Winnie home in the opener for Elliott while Keith Donoghue partnered Elliott's An Mhi in the rated hurdle.

Jack Kennedy was booked for Gaye Winnie and An Mhi, but wasn't in action today after being unseated in Kilbeggan yesterday.