The Paul Jordan-trained Wire Tapper stood out as one of the better bets at Northam this afternoon and punters agreed sending the 4-year-old out as the short odds-on favourite.

But their hearts would have certainly been in their mouths as it took the entire length of the straight before he was able to overtake a game Audrey Rose right on the shadows of the post.

Damian Miller made his intentions known early by shooting Audrey Rose straight out of the gates to take the lead and dictate terms in front.

Energy Play trailed her with the favourite beautifully placed in third position and ready to pounce as they approached the turn.

As they straightened Energy Play was out of contention and Wire Tapper loomed ominously but someone forgot to read the script to Audrey Rose who was giving plenty of cheek and stubborn resistance all the way and was refusing to lie down.

But inch by agonising inch Wire Tapper was able to close the gap and record a desperately close win.

Energy Play knocked up and finished well back but one of the best runs of the race was put in by Cue The Sun who powered home late into third position.

Wire Tapper, a Bletchley Park gelding, takes his record to one win and four minor placings from seven career starts.