An enquiry was held to consider the placings following an objection from James Davies, the rider of Max Forte (IRE), placed second, to the winner, Midnight Glory (GB), ridden by Mr Ben Jones, on the grounds of interference suffered at the third last hurdle.

Being a 7lb claimer, Jones was offered the opportunity to have someone accompany him in the enquiry, but declined.

The Stewards considered that the interference had not improved Midnight Glory (GB)’s placing as the interference took place at the third last hurdle, some distance from the line, Max Forte (IRE) had plenty of time to mount his challenge from that point and the winner, having himself suffered interference shortly after the third last hurdle, had come from behind to win.

Jones was suspended for 2 days for careless riding as he had manoeuvred left-handed in order to jump the third last hurdle, carrying Max Forte (IRE) off its intended line and causing the gelding to become unbalanced.

Davies was cautioned for careless riding as he had allowed his mount to drift right- handed without sufficient correction, causing Midnight Glory (GB) to be tightened for room shortly after the third last hurdle.

James Davies, the rider of Max Forte (IRE), placed second, used his whip above the permitted level from the second last hurdle.

As the offence warranted a suspension of between 2 and 6 days and taking into account that this was the rider’s fifth such suspension within the previous 6 months, Davies was referred to the Head Office of the British Horseracing Authority.