On a generally trying evening for punters on the polytrack Havelock Ellis gained a deserved success as the 9/4 favourite in the Christmas Party Nights At Dundalk.

Understandably much attention was taken off the finish here after the sweet travelling 50/1 chance Eretara clipped heels and came down with quarter of a mile left to run.

Fortunately rider Gavin Faulkner (went for x-rays on a collarbone) and the mare were quickly to their feet.

At the line Havelock Ellis had two lengths in hand over outsider Noverre Princess

Winning trainer Johnny Levins said: "If any horse deserved to win it's him.

"I'm delighted Ronan won on him as he rides a lot of work for me. He's going the right way and he likes this place.

"I'm pretty confident we'll get another one with him. It makes my job easier now as he's versatile distance-wise.

"The cheek-pieces have been a bit of a help and he's very genuine at the minute." (MG & EM)