THE weather finally allowed local celebrity, Turpin Green, to have his chance at the Carlisle Fences yesterday and with great success. He was evens favourite to win and didn't disappoint, beating second-place Rebel Rhythm by two and a half lengths.

Trained by Nicky Richards at Greystoke Stables, Turpin Green ran at Aintree's Grand National meeting earlier this year; romping home at 14-1 and winning by six lengths. As racing on the 13th November was abandoned due to bad weather, yesterday's Carlisle meeting was his first outing over the larger fences.

His jockey once again was Tony Dobbin; Carlisle's top winning jockey, who reached the milestone of 1000 jump-race wins in Britain just last month. Tony also rode Turpin Green to victory over the hurdles at Aintree and believes he has the character to be a top chaser.

Other winners yesterday were Percussionist, trained by Howard Johnson in Crook, Planters Punch, trained by George Moore in Middleham, Numero Un De Solzen, trained locally in Langholm and Silver Knight, trained by Tim Easterby.

Howard Johnson and jockey Graham Lee completed a double with Diamond Sal, whilst former jockey turned trainer Brian Storey saddled General Duroc from his Kirklinton base to land the finale.

The race meeting marked the end of the 2005 racing season at Carlisle, which will be focusing on Christmas parties and corporate events over the next month. The 2006 season starts again with a bang on January 14th with three televised races and combined prize money of £95,000. For further details, contact 01228 554700 or visit www.carlisle-races.co.uk.