Ruby Walsh strengthened his advantage at the head of the national hunt jockey's table when partnering Peggy's Lad to take the EBF Beginners Chase at Downpatrick yesterday.

Walsh is now on the 35-winner mark, six ahead of the injured Paul Carberry, after the Willie Mullins-trained seven-year-old headed Celtic Minstrel on the run-in to score by 1 1/2 lengths.

Charlie Swan recorded his 20th winner of the current season when Dual Star defied top weight after a patient ride in the Downpatrick Race Supporters Club handicap hurdle.

The well backed 11 to 2 chance is trained by Shane Donohoe, who is currently adding to the facilities at his Cavan yard by building a four-furlong all weather sand gallop.