Tawrific Laois sent favourite backers home happy when given a patient ride by Shane Butler to end a frustrating sequence of placings in the concluding Munster Handicap Hurdle at Thurles this afternoon.

The 5/1 favourite (from 7's) was produced from off the pace to lead approaching the final flight, and drew clear on the run-in to beat Burnswood by five lengths with Sweet Spirit another length away in third.

“I'm delighted he's got his head in front at last, and he'll go for something similar again next,” said trainer Seamus Fahey.