TANARPINO had won a point to point in Ireland on his debut, and had also achieved three wins over hurdles since joining the yard, but coming into this race today he had yet to break his duck over fences, and was very unlucky last time at Uttoxeter when just nailed on the line to come second by a neck. On this occasion he managed to build on some good performances on his previous starts, which also included being placed in a handicap at Cheltenham.

At Hexham today he was contesting the Great North Swim Novices' Chase and he jumped well, made all, and strode clear from the last to win comfortably by seven lengths. He was fully entitled to win this and did it extremely well. Thanks to Sean Quinlan for an excellent ride and many congratulations to owners P and Mrs G A Clarke.