The Group Two Duke of York Hearthstead Homes Stakes over 6f at York on Wednesday was won by the Richard Hannon-trained Assertive (Bold Edge – Tart And A Half), who emerged from the field in the final two furlongs and held on by a neck from South African Grade One winner War Artist (Orpen), who closed late and was a neck back in second. Beckermet was third.

Assertive was sold for 280,000 guineas in October and put up a career-best on his seasonal reappearance at Newmarket in April, making a sustained challenge after a slow start to finish second to Zidane. Having broken through in Pattern company after 15 attempts, he looks sure to be a major force in sprints over the summer.

The winning trainer's son and assistant Richard Hannon Jr said: "He really deserved that. He ran a super race first time this season when just beaten in the Abernant because he really needed that.

"It's great for the owners, who own his sire Bold Edge. He won a Group One for us so hopefully this fellow can join him. He'll probably go for the Golden Jubilee next.

"He's really tough, goes on any ground and deserved to win a big race like this."