Cinders and Ashes wins Cheltenham opener

Cinders and Ashes has won the William Hill Supreme Novices' Hurdle as the Cheltenham Festival got underway this afternoon.

The Jason Maguire-ridden horse, who went off a 10-1, held off late challenges despite making a mistake at the final fence.

Darlan came in trailing Cinders and Ashes in second place, while Trifolum made up the top three.

For trainer Donald McCain, the victory has brought an end to a losing streak of 40 races.

The Supreme Novices' Hurdle has started a four-day racing event at the Gloucestershire-based course.