Prince Of Scars stayed on stoutly to land the spoils in the three-mile handicap hurdle at Clonmel and give trainer Gordon Elliott a double on the card.

Bryan Cooper produced the Gigginstown gelding to challenge front-runner Kylecrue at the second last and he was getting on top when untidy at the final flight.

The 4/1 joint-favourite pulled away on the run-in to record a five-length length victory.

Irish Grand National winner Thunder And Roses carrying the second colours of Gigginstown, was fifth on his seasonal debut.

"He's a big, honest, galloping horse but is still a big baby," said Elliott of the winner.

"We'll look for a three mile handicap hurdle for him at Leopardstown over Christmas next."

He also quipped:- "This is the best moment of the season for me as it's the only stage when I'll be in front of Willie Mullins! I'm one ahead at the moment but he'll have two winners later!"

Prince Of Scars had run in a point-to-point for Elliott before dead-heating in a Leopardstown maiden hurdle for Sandra Hughes back in January. He was making his handicap debut today.

Elliot had also landed the opening maiden hurdle with Jetstream Jack

(Quotes by Thomas Weekes)